Vincent Trocheck sat out roughly a month early in the 2026‑27 campaign, initially listed with an upper‑body injury. The winger later revealed he was battling a lung infection that masqueraded as back spasms after a cross‑check on Oct. 9 in Buffalo. Fluid accumulated around his lung, forcing surgery, chest tubes and about a week in hospital. He described the episode as terrifying, fearing for his life.

He rejoined the lineup on Nov. 10, logging 65 of the remaining 66 games and contributing to the U.S. squad’s Olympic gold. Coach Mike Sullivan admitted Trocheck’s absence derailed the Rangers’ early rhythm, noting that timing of key injuries mattered more than volume. Sullivan also pointed to Rempe’s thumb and Edström’s ankle as further blows. Forward Matt Rempe and Swede Adam Edström also missed weeks with separate surgeries.

Trocheck said he’s ready for any offseason move, having endured the ordeal before. Rempe, recovering from a second thumb surgery, expects to be fit by training camp, while Edström finally addressed his fractured ankle with December surgery. Those health setbacks left New York scrambling for consistency, ultimately curbing a playoff bid that began with promise. Nevertheless, the core group remains healthy heading into next season.