J.T. Miller's availability will be monitored closely in the days leading up to the 2022 NHL trade deadline. The Vancouver Canucks have been noncommittal regarding his future with the organization, most recently saying that they'd prefer to keep him, despite the trade rumors surrounding the star center all season long. Whether or not he truly does end up staying in Vancouver remains to be seen, but there should be a handful of contending teams looking to acquire the 28-year-old at the trade deadline. Miller is expected to command similar value to that of Tyler Toffoli, who was acquired by the Calgary Flames in a deal with the Montreal Canadiens.
If available, Miller would be arguably the top asset on the market at the trade deadline. The Canucks star has enjoyed another sensational season in 2021-22, recording 69 points through his first 57 games, with 23 goals and 46 assists under his belt. He's been one of the league's best passers this year and would provide a boost to virtually any first-line in the NHL. Miller had signed a five-year, $26.25 million deal with the Tampa Bay Lightning in 2018, but was dealt to the Canucks just one year into the contract. He's earning $6 million this season and will earn $4.5 million next year in the final season of his contract, prior to hitting unrestricted free agency in 2023.
With all that in mind, here are three teams that need to bring J.T. Miller to town at the 2022 NHL trade deadline.
3 J.T. Miller Destinations at 2022 NHL trade deadline
The Colorado Avalanche were dealt a brutal blow over the weekend when star forward and team captain Gabriel Landeskog went down with a knee injury. The team's leading points-scorer is set to undergo knee surgery Monday to repair the injury, and there's no clear timetable for his return. The Avalanche were looking like favorites to hoist the Stanley Cup, but the loss of Landeskog could throw a wrench in things. Landeskog's absence creates a hole on the Aves, and if they're all-in on the Stanley Cup this year, they could be willing to sacrifice some future assets in a deal to land Miller.
Colorado has the talent to win it all this year, but Landeskog was a key factor in achieving their goals. If he's unable to return for their playoff push, a move for a player of Miller's caliber at the NHL trade deadline would help the Aves maintain their status as title favorites in 2021-22.
The Rangers have long been considered a top landing spot for Miller if any deal ends up happening, and the fit makes a ton of sense. New York has a ton of young talent, but is also ready to contend right now with the likes of Mika Zibanejad, Artemi Panarin, and Chris Kreider. A reunion in New York could be the perfect thing for Miller's career, as he played the first six seasons of his career under the bright lights in Madison Square Garden. With Ryan Strome on an expiring contract, the Rangers could address the future of their second line with the acquisition of Miller at the NHL trade deadline.
The former Rangers' first-round pick could be back in town for another go-around with the team. Considering he's having the best season of his career, he won't come cheap, but boosting the second line with a player of his caliber could be the move the Rangers need to vault them into true contention.
When thinking of teams that are in need of a second-line center, the Boston Bruins are among the first that come to mind. Miller would be a significant improvement over Erik Haula in the second line, and the pairing of him and David Pastrnak would be a joy to watch for fans in Boston. Currently the holders of the first Wild Card spot out of the East, the Bruins could get a huge boost ahead of their Stanley Cup Playoff push if they're willing to meet Vancouver's demands in a deal to acquire Miller.
Landing the gem of the NHL trade deadline at an area of need would be a colossal win for the Bruins, and it would help the team bridge the gap between themselves and the Toronto Maple Leafs and Tampa Bay Lightning in the Atlantic Division.
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