Since the memo came out about the Rangers wanting to move off some core players like Chris Kreider and Jacob Trouba, calls have been coming across the league for the Blueshirts players, not just the veterans. Players like Kaapo Kakko have garnered interest from admirers. Still, we've recently learned that teams have been trying to land New York Rangers defenseman K'Andre Miller amidst his struggles on the ice.
At 6'5, 220 lbs, the big defenseman has been one of the cornerstones of the Rangers blueline since they returned to contending status coming out of that rebuild. However, he's struggled to get going, and his place on this Rangers roster is at stake. He's a restricted free agent after the season, and he's not going in the right direction for the Rangers to be desperate to bring him back. If he continues to struggle, the Rangers could be entertaining offers.
According to ESPN insider Kevin Weekes, Miller's name is firmly in the rumor mill, and the Rangers aren't shutting it down. A decision regarding Miller is going to be made. Do the Rangers sell off and hope for the best, or do they keep St Paul, Minnesota native? If they keep him and he continues to underperform, these issues are going to get worse before they get better. If they trade him, will they be able to get a package that surpasses their expectations?
Defensemen of his stature and skill set are difficult to find. Everyone wants a silky, puck-moving 6'5 defenseman, but they don't grow on trees. The Rangers need to decide what path they will pursue with Miller. His underperformances this season have helped highlight many issues the Rangers have, and the rotating cast beside him shows it's not just an issue with his partner, Miller's struggling.
With just six points in 28 games, a -5 on the season, and struggling analytically, the ship is sinking with Miller. Some want to see him traded because they feel he is mistake-prone and too soft; others like what he can offer and want to remain patient with the 24-year-old. This is a tricky line to walk, and Chris Drury has to tow this line very carefully because he's on thin ice after the memo leaked about wanting to deal some of the core guys.