What Will J.T. Miller Bring to the New York Rangers?

If I had to choose who the Vancouver Canucks should have kept, I’m pleased they decided to keep Elias Pettersson and move J.T. Miller. As I’ve noted before, I think the team should have worked harder to solve whatever the issue was. Perhaps it was unsolvable. Still, if they had to make a move, Miller would have been my choice to leave.

However, that doesn’t mean that the Canucks won’t miss their enigmatic and vocal forward. The New York Rangers have made a significant move by reuniting with Miller, and here’s why I think so. As a team that has underperformed this season, the Rangers hope Miller’s offensive firepower and strong advanced analytics can convert to on-ice success. Could he provide the boost they need to solidify a playoff spot—and possibly re-emerge as a Stanley Cup contender in the Eastern Conference?

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What Will J.T. Miller Bring to the New York Rangers?

Miller was originally drafted 15th overall by the Rangers in 2011. He spent the first six seasons of his career in New York before being traded in 2018. Since then, he’s developed into one of the NHL’s premier point producers. He put up a 103-point season in 2022-23 and then 99 points in 2021-22. His return should immediately strengthen the Rangers’ power play and offensive depth.

Here’s a breakdown of what Miller brings to New York.

First, Miller Will Bring Power-Play Scoring

The Rangers’ power play, which ranked third in the NHL last season (26.4 percent), has struggled this year, sitting at 21st (19.9 percent). While New York still dominates offensive zone time on the man advantage, their finishing ability has taken a hit, particularly among key contributors like Mika Zibanejad, Chris Kreider, and Alexis Lafrenière.

Miller, however, is a proven power-play performer. Over the past four seasons, he ranks 10th in the NHL in power-play points (122) and had a career-high 40 last season. He can generate offense from several areas of the ice. He will likely slot perfectly into the Rangers’ top unit alongside Artemi Panarin, Vincent Trocheck, Zibanejad, and Adam Fox. He gives the team an immediate upgrade.

Second, Miller Possesses a Heavy Shot and Finishing Ability

Miller possesses one of the hardest shots in the NHL. He ranks fourth among forwards in max shot speed this season (98.22 mph). He also ranks among the league’s top forwards in 90-plus mph shots, joining Zibanejad as one of only two Rangers in the top five.

Despite his shooting ability, Miller’s scoring numbers have been slightly below his usual standard this season. Partly that’s due to an uncharacteristically low shooting percentage (11.0 percent, compared to his career average of 14.7). Given a fresh start in New York, folded in with the elite playmakers the Rangers possess, could help him regain his finishing touch.

Third, Miller Brings Speed and Solid Transition Play

Miller can generate speed through the neutral zone like nobody’s business. That fact makes him a dangerous transition player. He ranks in the 88th percentile this season in 20-plus mph speed bursts (104) and was even better last season (96th percentile, 229 bursts).

Miller’s speed will be a key for a Rangers team that has struggled with puck possession at 5-on-5, ranking 21st in shot attempt percentage (49.0). He should help drive the Rangers’ on-ice play and create more scoring chances at even strength. He’d be a great partner on a line with two of his former teammates – Zibanejad and Kreider.

Fourth, Miller Brings the Swagger of a Playoff-Ready Style

One of Miller’s most significant assets is his ability to play center and wing at an elite level. He has thrived in different roles throughout his career. He’s also driven to the point where he consistently elevates his game come the playoffs. During the past two postseasons, he put up 30 points (nine goals, 21 assists) in 30 postseason games.

The Rangers finished with the NHL’s best record last season but went nowhere during the playoffs. Can Miller help them succeed where they have fallen short in recent years? With speed, physicality, and elite offensive instincts, Miller could be the x-factor that helps his new team engage in a breakthrough. He brings both a physical and an emotional edge that should benefit the team in the postseason.

Fifth, Miller Is a Proven Postseason Performer

It’s worth re-mentioning Miller’s advanced stats during recent playoff runs. During the 2024 postseason, he led all forwards in 90-plus mph shots (five in 13 games) and ranked in the 99th percentile for shot speed. He’s able to generate midrange and high-danger scoring chances. All these attributes make him a valuable addition to a Rangers team looking for secondary scoring beyond Panarin.

The Bottom Line for Miller and the Rangers

The Rangers are betting that Miller’s return will reignite their offense and push them toward another deep playoff run. Who’s to say they aren’t right?

If the team can generate solid goaltending from Igor Shesterkin and a more balanced forward group, is there a chance that this reunion will finally help pull the Rangers over the top this postseason? Will Miller be the missing piece for a Rangers Cup run? There’s more than a good chance that he will.

The Miller show could get a long run on Broadway.

[Note: I want to thank NHL.com for compiling the statistical numbers I used in this post.]

Related: Grading the Canucks J.T. Miller Trade: A Big Rangers’ Win