After a disappointing end to the World Cup of Hockey for Jacob Trouba and Team North America, it seems like the young defenceman will not be joining the Winnipeg Jets at training camp.
An obvious talent on the blue line, the 22-year-old defenceman went to the World Cup without a contract from the Jets. A restricted free agent, doesn’t like the situation he’s in with Winnipeg and according to his agent – Kurt Overhardt – is seeking a trade out of the Jets’ organization.
“Our client, Jacob Trouba, will not be attending the Winnipeg Jets NHL training camp,” read the statement acquired by Sportsnet. “Since May, we have been working with the Jets management in an effort to facilitate a trade of Jacob’s rights. Both parties continue to work on this matter.
There has been no negotiation regarding the terms of a contract between our client and the Jets over the course of the last several months. The situation is not about money; it is solely about our client having the opportunity to realize his potential as a right shot NHL defenseman.
To the Jets credit, the club has two outstanding right shot veteran defensemen and our client simply wants the opportunity to have a greater role. As a consequence of the Jets depth on the right side, we believe it is in both parties’ best interest to facilitate a mutually advantageous trade.
Our client has nothing but respect for the people and City of Winnipeg, the Winnipeg Jets, its fans, management and ownership – our desire to get him moved has everything to do with opportunity. We will continue to work with the Jets in good faith to achieve this end.”
Trouba was originally drafted by the Jets ninth overall in 2012. In three seasons with the club, he’s accumulated 72 points (23g-49a) in 211 regular season games. While it won’t be easy for the Jets to see him go, this is a major announcement for teams looking for a right-handed defenceman.