Struggles and Hope for Rangers’ JT Miller

Mike Sullivan finds himself grappling with a tricky question. Just as the Rangers felt they were on the verge of seeing their captain, JT Miller, return to his prime form—the one that scored 103 points—injuries intervened.

Miller’s season has been marred by injuries, forcing him onto injured reserve on two separate occasions. He missed two games in November, and, not long after, was placed on IR again in December. Before a recent game against the Devils, he had accumulated only 38 points across 53 games, marking his lowest output in any season with over 60 games played since 2018-19.

Sullivan spoke in defense of Miller’s struggles, describing this year as “difficult.” Despite the setbacks, he emphasized that Miller remains vital to the Rangers as they navigate a rebuilding phase. “We can build an identity around him,” Sullivan stated.

“I know it’s been tough for him,” he remarked to reporters following practice. “He has high expectations for himself and the team. When we fail to meet those, it’s hard on everyone, especially our leaders.”

As of late, Miller hasn’t scored a goal since January 26 and has only two points in five games since returning from his Olympic stint with Team USA. There, he had an impactful role, participating in a crucial penalty kick that helped secure the gold medal.

Still, there are glimmers of hope. During a recent game against the Kings, he almost capitalized on a rebound opportunity, only for the Kings’ goalie, Darcy Kuemper, to snatch it up.

In December, he had shown promising form with four goals and ten points in just 13 games before being sidelined again following a hit against the Flyers. Since returning from IR, Sullivan moved him back to the first power-play unit, shifting Gabe Perreault to the second line in a decision that left some scratching their heads.

Even as the Rangers approach the end of a tough season, and numbers suggest a down year, Sullivan continues to believe in Miller’s potential.

“We really depend on him in multiple areas, especially for offensive production,” Sullivan noted. “He carries a lot of pressure because he knows the impact he can make.”

“I’ve had numerous talks with JT this year. His commitment to the organization and the team is obvious; he really feels responsible as a leader and takes that role seriously,” he added.