The New York Rangers entered Saturday’s game against the Montreal Canadiens desperate for a win after a five-game losing streak, and Jacob Trouba wasted no time setting the tone.
Just two minutes into the game, the Rangers captain dropped the gloves with Montreal’s Josh Anderson in a heated bout that echoed the growing frustrations around the team and Trouba in particular.
Trouba has been the subject of trade speculation amid reports that GM Chris Drury is exploring major roster changes involving Trouba and fellow veteran Chris Kreider.
Anderson, seeking retribution for a previous Trouba hit on Justin Barron the last time both teams met, came out swinging, landing a flurry of punches that left Trouba visibly shaken.
While Trouba managed to stay on his feet, Anderson dominated the fight, delivering a clear message to the Rangers’ captain in response to his past actions.
Although Trouba lost the fight against Anderson, it's fair to say the Rangers turned that outcome into a win for the team.
“There was a lot of energy after that,” Kreider said. “That’s our leader stepping up and doing whatever it takes.”
“That’s something to get the guys going,” Kaapo Kakko said.
The chippy play continued throughout the game, with several scuffles breaking out at different stages of Saturday's game.
Despite blowing a two-goal lead in the third period, Kakko (also involved in trade rumors) delivered the game-winning power-play goal with just 24 seconds remaining.
The victory marked a much-needed break for the Rangers, who improved to a 13-9-1 record and 27 total points through 23 games played.
