Vincent Trocheck of the New York Rangers missed a month early in the season after what was initially reported as an upper-body injury. However, it later turned out he had a lung infection that felt like back spasms. The condition worsened during a game on Oct. 9 when he took a cross check to the area. Trocheck underwent surgery to remove fluid from his lung, which required chest tubes and kept him hospitalized for about a week. He described the experience as “very scary,” even thinking he might die.
Trocheck returned to the ice on Nov. 10 and played in 65 of the remaining 66 games that season. Despite this, his extended absence was seen as a key factor in the Rangers’ struggling season. Coach Mike Sullivan noted that while injuries are common, Trocheck’s absence was particularly challenging due to his importance to the team.
The only game Trocheck missed after his return was a healthy scratch near the trade deadline in March. He remains with the Rangers heading into the next season, despite rumors of potential trades. Trocheck is prepared for any outcome this summer and emphasized his experience navigating such situations over his 13-year NHL career.
Meanwhile, forward Matt Rempe’s season was sidelined after injuring his left thumb in a fight on Oct. 23. He returned after two months but needed a second surgery and hasn’t played since February. Rempe aims to be fully recovered by training camp in September, stating he feels “hungry” for next year.
Swedish forward Adam Edstrom also missed time due to a fractured ankle he tried to play through for six weeks before deciding to have surgery in December. He was a healthy scratch toward the end of the season and received feedback from coach Sullivan about needing more consistency.