J.T. Miller Takes Charge as Rangers’ New Captain in Milestone Season
The New York Rangers have officially named J.T. Miller as their captain, marking a significant moment in the franchise’s storied history. This announcement comes as the Rangers embark on their centennial NHL season, and Miller becomes the 29th player to wear the ‘C’ for the team. His appointment follows a midseason trade in 2024-25 that saw Jacob Trouba, the previous captain, move to the Anaheim Ducks on December 6.
Transition of Leadership
Jacob Trouba held the captaincy since 2022, but the Rangers faced a leadership gap prior to his tenure, going four years without a designated captain. Miller, who hails from East Palestine, Ohio, was originally drafted 15th overall by the Rangers in 2011. He returned to New York from the Vancouver Canucks on January 31, 2025, and is now poised to lead the team into the future. With an annual average salary of $8 million, Miller’s contract runs through 2029, solidifying his position as a cornerstone player for the franchise.
Continuing the American Captain Trend
Miller’s captaincy continues a trend of American-born players leading the Rangers. He becomes the fifth consecutive U.S.-born captain for the team, following in the footsteps of Chris Drury, who captained from 2008. Drury expressed his confidence in Miller, stating, “Since his arrival last season, J.T. immediately became a leader for our group and exemplifies how we want to conduct ourselves both on and off the ice. Congratulations to J.T. and his entire family on an incredibly meaningful achievement. We’re confident he will continue to represent our organization with class, commitment, and integrity.”
A Complex Journey to Leadership
While Miller’s captaincy is celebrated, it also comes with a backdrop of challenges. His trade from Vancouver was partly prompted by a feud with teammate Elias Pettersson, which led to the Canucks sending Miller to New York in exchange for young center Filip Chytil, defenseman Victor Mancini, and a conditional first-round pick. Despite these complications, Miller has proven himself to be one of the NHL’s elite point producers. After joining the Rangers, he scored 35 points in 32 games and continues to defy age expectations. Though he will turn 33 in March, Miller’s performance has remained strong, with an average of 0.4 goals and 1.1 points per game over the past six seasons, and an impressive shooting percentage of 16.0.
Looking Ahead to the Centennial Season
The Rangers are eager to put the disappointments of the 2024-25 season behind them, a campaign that saw them finish with only 85 points and miss the playoffs. As they prepare for their 100th season, the anticipation is palpable. Drury highlighted the significance of this milestone, stating, “The centennial season promises to be a special year for everyone associated with the New York Rangers. Wearing the Rangers uniform is an honor and privilege unlike any other in the National Hockey League, and that is because of the legacy that has been created here over 100 years. We all can’t wait to be part of this once-in-a-lifetime season.”
Training Camp Commences
As the Rangers gear up for the new season, the veterans reported to training camp on Tuesday, while rookies had already begun their preparations the previous week. The team is poised to hit the ice under the guidance of head coach Mike Sullivan for the first time on Wednesday. Their preseason campaign kicks off with a matchup against the New Jersey Devils on Sunday, leading into a series of six exhibition games before the regular season opener against the Pittsburgh Penguins at Madison Square Garden on October 7.
With J.T. Miller at the helm, the Rangers are looking to forge a new path in their storied history, aiming for a successful centennial season.
