With the NHL Trade Deadline just three weeks out, the Carolina Hurricanes sit atop the Metropolitan Division with 78 points and a clear goal in mind: finding the right piece to push them from contenders to true Cup threats. And that piece might just be a familiar face - one who already knows the system, the locker room, and what it takes to win in Raleigh. Enter Vincent Trocheck.
Trocheck and the Hurricanes: A Reunion Worth Considering
Carolina isn’t known for bringing back former players - unless your name is Justin Williams, and let’s be honest, that’s its own category. But in Trocheck’s case, the fit makes too much sense to ignore. He was arguably the best second-line center the Canes have had under Rod Brind’Amour, and the need for a right-handed 2C is as glaring now as it’s ever been.
Since leaving Carolina in free agency ahead of the 2022-23 season, Trocheck has been with the New York Rangers, now in year four of a seven-year, $39.38 million deal that carries a $5.625 million cap hit. He’s under contract through 2028-29, when he’ll be 35. That kind of term might scare off some teams - but for Carolina, it could be a calculated investment in a player who already proved he can thrive in their system.
This season, Trocheck has posted 12 goals and 36 points in 43 games. On paper, those numbers might not jump off the page - especially with a minus-16 rating - but context matters.
The Rangers are having a rough go, currently sitting at the bottom of the Metro. That’s not all on Trocheck, and in fact, his production has held relatively steady despite the team-wide struggles.
What Trocheck Brings to the Table
During his three seasons with the Hurricanes from 2019-20 to 2021-22, Trocheck was a consistent contributor. He tallied 39 goals and 96 points in 135 regular-season games.
His final year in Raleigh saw him notch 21 goals and 51 points over 81 games - followed by a strong playoff showing with six goals and 10 points in 14 games. That kind of postseason production is exactly what Carolina needs as they gear up for a deep run.
Beyond the numbers, Trocheck brings a physical edge and a competitive fire that fits Brind’Amour’s identity like a glove. He’s a pest in the best way - tough to play against, always in the mix, and never afraid to throw his weight around. Since 2015-16, he’s recorded over 100 hits every season, and in 2024-25, he broke the 200-hit mark for the first time with 214.
Then there’s the faceoff prowess. Trocheck is winning draws at a 56.5% clip this season, going 405-for-717 in the circle.
He hasn’t dipped below 50% since 2016-17, and for a team that thrives on puck possession, that’s a huge asset. Compare that to Logan Stankoven, who’s done a solid job in his first full NHL season - 10 goals and 25 points in 57 games - but is winning just 44.4% of his faceoffs.
Stankoven’s still adjusting to the role after playing mostly wing in juniors, and the Canes could use a more seasoned hand down the middle.
The Fit and the Price
Trocheck checks every box Carolina is looking for in a trade target: right-handed shot, two-way center, faceoff ace, physical presence, and someone who already knows the system. He’s 32, still producing, and signed to a manageable deal for a few more years. That’s not easy to find on the trade market.
Yes, Trocheck has a modified no-trade clause - currently a 12-team list - but it’s hard to imagine Carolina being one of the teams he’d block. He was well-liked in the locker room, embraced by the fan base, and clearly comfortable in Brind’Amour’s structure. His no-trade list shrinks to 10 teams next season and six in the final two years of the deal, but that’s a conversation for another day.
As for the cost? That’s where it gets interesting.
The Rangers recently moved Artemi Panarin - a pending UFA - for a conditional third-round pick and prospect Liam Greentree. If that’s the return for a player of Panarin’s caliber (albeit on an expiring deal), the asking price for Trocheck shouldn’t be much higher, especially considering his age and contract term.
Final Thoughts
Carolina has a legitimate shot at making noise this postseason, but to get over the hump, they need more strength down the middle. Trocheck isn’t just a familiar option - he’s the right option.
He brings skill, grit, leadership, and a proven track record in this exact system. If the Hurricanes are serious about chasing a Stanley Cup, this is the kind of move that could make all the difference.
The clock is ticking. Three weeks to go. If there’s one name Carolina should have circled in bold on their trade board, it’s Vincent Trocheck.