Categories: BUSINESS

2024-2025 JT Miller report card

The 2024-2025 JT Miller report card may only be based on 32 games, but it was a solid 32 games for the new Rangers 1C, whom the Rangers acquired in January. Sending Filip Chytil, Victor Mancini, and a 2025 1st round pick to Vancouver for Miller, the Rangers addressed a big need by acquiring a true 1C, shifting both Mika Zibanejad and Vincent Trocheck to the 2C and 3C spots (label them however you want, it’s semantics). Miller’s acquisition was the big piece in a much needed overhaul of the locker room.

In 32 games, Miller put up 12-22-35 while taking over 1C duties from Zibanejad. Miller also put up 3-5-8 on the powerplay, where he eventually wound up on PP1 with the Chris Kreider injury taking him out of the lineup. It’s worth noting Miller shot 23.6%, so his 12 goals on 55 shots was a tad high. That rate will surely come down, but over a full season it’s fair to expect a 70 point floor from Miller while likely drawing top defensive assignments from the opposition.

Miller’s impact was two-fold: The Rangers needed to identify a new 1C with Zibanejad struggling, and they needed to change the vibes in the locker room. Miller’s arrival coincided with Zibanejad’s awakening in the second half of the season. It’s likely coincidence, but it’s also fair to say both benefited from each other when they were on the same line.

Upon joining the Rangers, Miller played at all strengths. Amassing 4 shorthanded assists, Miller added more strength to the penalty kill, one bright spot from the Blueshirts last year. As long as Father Time keeps his distance, Miller’s acquisition looks like a solid one for the Blueshirts.

Miller did everything he was asked of upon joining the Rangers. Last season was an audition. This season is the full show. He didn’t have a big enough impact on the locker room when he came back to the Rangers, but this is his team now. Let’s see what he does with it.