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Rangers: Bridge deal vs. long-term contract… looking at the ELC players.

By Michael DeRosa

UNIONDALE, NEW YORK - APRIL 09: Alexis Lafreniere #13 (L) celebrates his second period goal against the New York Islanders and is joined by Adam Fox #23 (R) at Nassau Coliseum on April 09, 2021 in Uniondale, New York. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)
UNIONDALE, NEW YORK - APRIL 09: Alexis Lafreniere #13 (L) celebrates his second period goal against the New York Islanders and is joined by Adam Fox #23 (R) at Nassau Coliseum on April 09, 2021 in Uniondale, New York. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images) /
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NEW YORK, NEW YORK – APRIL 22: K’Andre Miller #79 of the New York Rangers takes the puck in the second period against the Philadelphia Flyersat Madison Square Garden on April 22, 2021 in New York City. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – APRIL 22: K’Andre Miller #79 of the New York Rangers takes the puck in the second period against the Philadelphia Flyersat Madison Square Garden on April 22, 2021 in New York City. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) /

K’Andre Miller D

K’Andre Miller has already cemented himself as a top-four defenseman in this league. With how well and confidently he played this year, it sometimes was hard to believe that he only a rookie. In 53 games, he scored five goals and had 12 points. His dependable play on the backend also was a big reason behind him making the All-Rookie Team.

Miller will be fascinating to pay attention this upcoming season. At just 21 years old, he has a lot of room for growth and getting more experience will help. He also will continue to benefit from playing with a Jacob Trouba, as the latter is a great leader who is also very talented.

Miller has two years left on his ELC, so the Rangers have some time to contemplate their next move with him. If he continues to play this well, a long-term should be the way to go. However, if he struggles more these next two seasons or the Rangers end up cap-strapped, a bridge deal would make sense, too.

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