New York Rangers: Picking the Steven McDonald Award Winner

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Mar 17, 2017; New York, NY, USA; New York Rangers left wing J.T. Miller (10) controls the puck against Florida Panthers left wing Jonathan Huberdeau (11) during first period at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Noah K. Murray-USA TODAY Sports /

John Williams- J.T. Miller

In a season riddled by inconsistent play from up and down the Rangers’ lineup, J.T. Miller is the one player who has consistently played well, game after game.

Miller is able to impact a game even if he cannot find the scoreboard. He always finishes his checks, he is not afraid to lay out to block a shot at a key point in the game and as the season has gone on, he routinely comes to the aid of a teammate who is being pushed around by an opposing player.

On top of this, Miller has grown a tremendous amount in both the defensive zone and the offensive end. He has become a wizard with the puck on his stick almost overnight. He has contributed 32 assists through 74 games this year, which blows his previous career high of 21 in a season out of the water.

A lot of people thought Miller’s 15-16 season could have been a fluke, but he has proved that last year was only the beginning. The 24-year-old has notched his second consecutive 20 goal season, passed the 50 point mark for the first time ever, and has a +/- rating of 21 this season. There is no doubt that Miller should be awarded the Steven McDonald award for his efforts.

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