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Rangers' Reluctance That Led to K'Andre Miller's Exit Revealed

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Antonio Losada | Last updated Jul 7, 2025 9:34 AM ET

The Carolina Hurricanes didn’t hesitate, while the New York Rangers did.

That hesitation opened the door for a major shift involving then-pending restricted free agent K'Andre Miller, and NHL insider Elliotte Friedman has shed light on the difference in philosophy that led to the blueliner's surprise move to Carolina.

Speaking on Sunday's episode of the "32 Thoughts" podcast, Friedman said the Rangers “weren’t willing to go long term with Miller,” instead preferring a short extension. "They were only willing to go, I think, a couple of years."

Carolina, by contrast, “was not afraid of (a long-term deal)" and "was willing to take a bet.”

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The Hurricanes' bet translated into a huge eight-year, $60 million contract , making Miller a core piece alongside forward Sebastian Aho and defenseman Jaccob Slavin.

For Carolina, the move felt like a league-wide statement, as the Hurricanes were ecstatic to land the young defenseman.

"Everybody’s looking for big defensemen who have that mobility,” head coach Rod Brind’Amour said. “I think it’s a really good move for us.”

New York received a second-round pick, a conditional first, and prospect Scott Morrow from Carolina in exchange for Miller.

Shortly after, the Rangers signed Vladislav Gavrikov to a $49 million deal, signaling their preference for a different defensive direction compared to what Miller provided.

Rangers general manager Chris Drury pointed to Gavrikov’s reliability and fit as a major reason the team chased and signed him

“That’s the (defensive) mindset he shows up with every single day,” Drury said. “That’s what excited all of us in targeting this player. Thrilled to be able to have him as a key part of that (defense) corps.”

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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