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NHLFeature
Best version of ex-Rangers defenseman on display in latest postseason run
TL;DR
KāAndre Miller, the former Rangers defenseman, is excelling in the postseason with the Carolina Hurricanes, showcasing his skills in a top-four role. He previously contributed significantly to the Rangers' playoff runs but was traded after a decline in performance.
Key points
- KāAndre Miller is excelling in the postseason with the Hurricanes
- He was traded by the Rangers for salary cap relief
- Miller signed an eight-year, $60 million contract with Carolina
- He previously had notable playoff performances with the Rangers
- Miller's role has shifted to fit the Hurricanes' fast play style
KāAndre MillerNew York RangersCarolina HurricanesTampa Bay Lightning
KāAndre Millerās been here before, contributing in a top-four role on defense for a team headed to the Eastern Conference Final. The 26-year-old did that twice with the New York Rangers. But it was never quite like this postseason run with the Carolina Hurricanes.
Yes, Miller was a standout in 2022, part of an emerging core on Broadway playing in his ā and collectively their ā first Stanley Cup Playoffs. Then just 22 years old, Miller paired with veteran Jacob Trouba and logged the second most TOI for the Rangers, averaging 24:47 in 20 postseason games, and was second among Blueshirts defenseman with seven points (two goals, five assists), though he was also minus-5.
The Rangers blew a 2-0 series lead and lost the best-of-7 conference final to the Tampa Bay Lightning in six games. Two years later, Miller and the Rangers were back in the East Final, but lost in six games to the Florida Panthers. This time, there were more warts to see in Millerās game,
After his offensive output dipped again, and his defensive game regressed, during New Yorkās stunning fall in the 2024-25 regular season, the Rangers traded Miller to the Hurricanes last summer, one year ahead of his unrestricted free agency.
The Rangers needed some salary cap relief, and, more importantly, didnāt appear to believe Miller was worthy of a long-term investment. The Hurricanes saw a player who should fit seamlessly into their fast play style, which focuses on puck possession and shot volume. So, Carolina signed Miller to an eight-year, $60 million contract.
The Hurricanes were right, Miller is an excellent fit playing in coach Rod BrindāAmourās system. Despite a few injuries, Miller totaled 37 points (eight goals, 29 assists) in 72 games, the second-highest total in his career, after the 43 points he picked up with the Rangers in 2022-23.
Q&A
What is KāAndre Miller's current role with the Carolina Hurricanes?
KāAndre Miller is playing in a top-four defenseman role for the Carolina Hurricanes during their postseason run.
Why did the New York Rangers trade KāAndre Miller?
The Rangers traded KāAndre Miller to the Hurricanes for salary cap relief and because they did not see him as a long-term investment.
How much is KāAndre Miller's contract with the Carolina Hurricanes?
KāAndre Miller signed an eight-year contract worth $60 million with the Carolina Hurricanes.
What were KāAndre Miller's statistics during his last postseason with the Rangers?
In his last postseason with the Rangers, KāAndre Miller averaged 24:47 minutes of ice time per game and recorded seven points in 20 games.
