J.T. Miller reportedly nixed major deal before Rangers trade

New York Rangers left wing J.T. Miller. Brad Penner-Imagn Images

J.T. Miller reportedly shut down blockbuster deal before returning to New York

Originally posted on Blade of Steel | By Tom Banks | Last updated Feb 28, 2025 4:54 PM ET

J.T. Miller is back in New York, and it's clear that was his intention as he shut down a major trade offer from the Colorado Avalanche.

The New York Rangers made the move to acquire J.T. Miller from the Vancouver Canucks, and after a red-hot start since his return, it's safe to say the team will be happy with the deal.

Now, a shocking new report has come out from insider Renaud Lavoie, who is now reporting that Miller shut down a major deal that would have sent him to the Colorado Avalanche, making it clear that his intent was to return to the New York Rangers if he were to be moved.

"In their minds, they made the trade because J.T. Miller was coming to Colorado. They were convinced that J.T. Miller would be traded from the Canucks to the Avalanche, and from what I'm told, J.T. raised his hand and said, 'I'm not playing in Denver.'"

Not only did the move affect Vancouver, but it was also reportedly the reason why the Avs moved Mikko Rantanen to make Miller their long-term solution at the 2C position. Ultimately, they were left with plenty of salary cap but no Miller after he shut down the deal.

Now, the Avalanche head toward the trade deadline with $5 million available to them, but with Miller now in New York and fewer center options left on the market, this could end up being a disaster for the team.

As for Miller, he has nine points in eight games since returning to New York as the Rangers sit just two points out of a wild-card spot, so while only time will tell whether or not this was the best move overall, he's clearly happy with his new team and is thriving on the ice once again.

This article first appeared on Blade of Steel and was syndicated with permission.

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