Bill Guerin has put his faith in Vincent Trocheck this season, a decision that’s sparked some debate among fans and analysts. Alongside his New York Rangers teammate J.T.
Miller, Trocheck stands out on Team USA, drawing comparisons to high-caliber players like Jason Robertson and Cole Caufield. With Trocheck's 12 goals and 34 points, some might wonder if he measures up.
Team Canada, on the other hand, boasts a formidable lineup with Brandon Hagel, Sam Reinhart, and Brad Marchand combining for 79 goals. It seems Canada has unleashed its full offensive power, while Guerin opted for Trocheck, potentially leaving some firepower on the bench.
The upcoming games will be crucial in determining the wisdom of Guerin's choice. Beyond the Olympics, there's speculation about Trocheck's future with the Minnesota Wild.
The Rangers are open to trading him, and the Wild are in need of a center. Trocheck could find himself in a prime position, stepping into a top-six role in Minnesota, a stark contrast to his current fourth-line status with Team USA.
Minnesota offers Trocheck a unique opportunity. If the Wild keep Matt Boldy and Joel Eriksson Ek together, Trocheck could become Kirill Kaprizov's main center. Just ask Ryan Hartman or Victor Rask how beneficial that can be.
Trocheck’s skills extend beyond his current role. The Wild have long sought a right-shot center to set up stars like Kaprizov and Boldy, and Trocheck’s prowess in faceoffs-boasting a 56.5% win rate overall and an impressive 68.0% on the power play-could make him a valuable asset, possibly even displacing Mats Zuccarello or Eriksson Ek on the top unit.
Guerin’s confidence in Trocheck isn’t new. He’s backed him before, notably in the 4 Nations Face-Off.
But is Trocheck the best option over younger, more productive centers like Robert Thomas? Or could there be bigger opportunities on the horizon, such as a chance with Auston Matthews?
In Milan, Trocheck has contributed two assists in four games, both against Latvia and Denmark. While these numbers may not be staggering, his role is crucial. He’s not expected to be the next Matthews or Eichel but to fortify a strong fourth line, and he's done just that.
Team USA has controlled 78% of the expected goals share at even strength with Trocheck on the ice, outperforming teams like Latvia, Denmark, and Germany. Only Matthews, Eichel, and Tkachuk have had a stronger impact among the US forwards.
Trocheck has excelled in the faceoff circle, winning 68.6% of his draws. Although he was on the ice for a critical goal against Sweden, it's a reminder that even top players can be bested by stars like Lucas Raymond.
Guerin's decision on Trocheck likely won't hinge on a single play or game. The Olympics are a high-stakes arena, and sometimes exceptional players get the upper hand. Trocheck's nine minutes on the fourth line here are a far cry from what he could achieve alongside Kaprizov in the playoffs.
Ultimately, if Minnesota decides against trading for Trocheck, it may be due to the Rangers' demands or the availability of a bigger name, rather than his Olympic performance. Trocheck’s proven his worth by making the Olympic team, and Guerin’s trust in him remains strong unless something drastic occurs.