There is currently a fairly large bias among Rangers fans who may be exposed in our Vincent Trocheck Report Card. While Mika Zibanejad received a lot of deserved criticism, it felt like Trocheck was flying under the radar. But if you dig a little deeper, Zibanejad performed better than Trocheck in many facets of the game, including general scoring and playing. Since both played somewhat similar roles last year and both are considered to be dressing parliamenters, it is something that is worth exploring.
In a primary attacking role especially with Artemi Panarin and Alexis Lafreniere, Trocheck placed a solid 26-33-59 more than 82 games, including 5-7-12 on the Powerplay and no fewer than six short goals. On even strength, the line of Trocheck 15-25-40 was again respectable. Just like any other ranger, a hit van Trocheck became a hit last year, although it was more pronounced with Trocheck because of the PowerPlay ignorance last year.
What is interesting is the game of Trocheck away from the Puck, which took a considerable decline. He imposed the points, but driving his row was insufficient, especially when generating quality opportunities, which suggests that he was a bit more a passenger next to Panarin and Lafreniere last season. His production on the ice surpassed his expected statistics, which means that unless there is a bouncing back, we could see his numbers glide. Especially if it is removed from PP1 and/or there is a more even toi divided between the two units.
Trocheck is still solid, don’t get me wrong. His micro states are good and excel in most offensive categories. But he is struggling with leaving the defensive zone, which will probably play an important role in his rough defensive numbers last year. This would also play a role in his fall in the game. It is not yet a reason for concern, but it is something to note about his season. He was fine, but there was a step back.
Although Trocheck did not have a ‘A’ on his sweater, he was certainly part of the leadership core. As a veteran who has been ‘there before’, he could have arrived and gave a boost for moral and helped the team to guide when it was clear that Jacob Trouba and Chris Kreider were Lamme leaders. The chance was, especially when JT Miller was taken over six weeks after the Trouba trade.
Trocheck is expected to be a leader this year, complete with an ‘A’ on an absolute minimum. We can explain his role in the dressing room last year, but it is still there and for some reason without criticism.
2024-2025 Vincent Trocheck Report Card Grade: C
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