Anaheim's Jacob Trouba enters the final-year of his deal and could return to the team that drafted him. The 2026 NHL Free Agent class is shaping up to be one of the most significant in league history. With stars such as Connor McDavid, Jack Eichel, and Artemi Panarin potentially hitting the open market, fans across the league are already dreaming about the possibilities. Unless this class follows a similar trend to recent years where top players re-sign with their current teams, the league could be in for a major shake-up. One name that stands out for Winnipeg fans is Jacob Trouba. The six-foot-three, right-shot defenseman was drafted ninth overall by the Jets in 2012. He is currently finishing a deal that carries an annual cap hit of $8 million. Trouba has been known for his physical presence and has shown the ability to put up 30 to 40 points in the right environment. However, he has faced growing criticism in recent seasons, posting a minus rating in each of the last three years. Some of these struggles may be linked to tension with Rangers management during his time in New York, where he served as captain from 2019 until he was traded to Anaheim last season. If he does not settle in California, a return to Winnipeg could be an appealing option for the 31-year-old. The Jets may be in the market for a playoff-tested defenseman to strengthen their depth, potentially pairing Trouba with a veteran like Luke Schenn. If Trouba is willing to sign at a reduced cap hit in the range of $5 to $6 million, Winnipeg could see value in bringing back a player they once saw as a cornerstone piece. Trouba’s best NHL season came in 2018–19 when he recorded a career-high 50 points, including 42 assists. That year, he finished tied for ninth among all defensemen in assists, alongside names like Erik Karlsson and Victor Hedman. He also ranked second among Jets defensemen in hits with 112 and led the team with 171 blocked shots, placing him sixth in the league in that category. A return to Winnipeg could provide Trouba with a morale boost and a familiar environment, possibly allowing him to recapture the form that once made him one of the league’s most promising defensemen. Winnipeg's Best Individual Performances During their Historic 2024-25 Season [https://deweb-519a7.b-cdn.net/post-images/6a515a52-d03d-49b4-a205-c931ccad4e47.webp] Winnipeg's Best Individual Performances During their Historic 2024-25 Season Looking back at the most impressive single-game performances from the Jets historic 2024-25 season. [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/winnipeg-jets/latest-news/winnipeg-s-best-individual-performances-during-their-historic-2024-25-season]
