What a whirlwind few months it's been for J.T. Miller.
Once hailed as the 29th captain of the New York Rangers, Miller seemed poised for success in his second stint with the team after being reacquired from the Vancouver Canucks. But the 2025-26 season has been anything but smooth sailing, as injuries have cast a shadow over his performance.
A Dip in Performance
In 55 games this season, Miller has managed just 39 points, a stark contrast to his impressive pace last year. The downturn can be traced back to a suspected leg injury he picked up just before the season kicked off. Though not deemed serious at the time, it's fair to wonder how much it has affected his play.
Miller's season has been further disrupted by injuries, including a recent upper-body issue that sidelined him for five games. Since returning on March 14, his performance has been inconsistent, with expected goals for percentages fluctuating wildly. Despite an overall expected goal share above 51 percent, his recent struggles have been a concern for the Rangers.
Should the Rangers Shut Miller Down?
With the playoffs out of reach, the Rangers face a decision: continue playing Miller or prioritize his health? Keeping him on the ice risks further injury, and with four more years left on his $8 million per season contract, the team needs him healthy for the future.
Moreover, this could be a chance for the Rangers to evaluate their young talent. Players like Alexis Lafrenière and Gabe Perreault have thrived with increased minutes. Bringing up prospects such as Adam Sýkora, Bryce McConnell-Barker, and Dylan Roobroeck could provide valuable insights into the team's future.
Looking Ahead to a Rebound
Focusing on recovery could set the stage for Miller to bounce back next season. While expecting a return to his 90-100 point days might be unrealistic, he still has the potential to contribute 50-60 points, thanks to his versatility and elite faceoff skills, winning 60.8 percent of his draws this season.
Whether the Rangers decide to trade him when his modified no-trade clause kicks in next year, Miller remains a valuable asset. For now, the best course might be to let him heal and prepare for a stronger 2026-27 season. Ending this challenging season early could be beneficial for both Miller and the Rangers.