JT Miller & the Canucks Remain Far Apart on Negotiations, Trade Appears Imminent

The Vancouver Canucks' salary cap situation is unenviable. The Canucks have $2.15 million in cap space this summer, and with the Albatros contracts of Oliver Ekman-Larsson & Tyler Myers there will be sacrifices to their lineup. As has been the case for some time, JT Miller's name is smack-dab in the middle of trade whirlwinds, and the price is reasonably high.


As Seravalli suggests, Miller is quite high on most trade lists, and the list of suitors is extensive. The issue with the Canucks' 99-point scorer is that by the time his contract expires, he will be 30 years-old & will command a lucrative new contract, which will likely age poorly. Nevertheless, there is no shortage of teams willing to mortgage their futures for the opportunity to win a Stanley Cup. Those clubs linked to a Miller trade are the New York Rangers, Washington Capitals, and perhaps the New Jersey Devils. The Rangers will need to find a 2nd line center to replace Ryan Strome, the Capitals need to figure out Nicklas Backstrom's situation, and the Devils need literally anyone capable of playing NHL hockey. So all three teams make sense.

It is believed that JT Miller, an Ohio native, wants to play in the US after spending the past three seasons north of the border. Anticipate trade talks to escalate as the Entry Draft commences tomorrow, July 7, but there is no guarantee Miller is moved this summer. However, all signs points to that scenario, as Vancouver is in salary cap limbo & Miller's value is not getting any greater. In other words, strike while the iron is hot.



JT Miller is quite the player, though. He makes his teammates' jobs easier with his aggressive forecheck, heavy play style, and ability to make plays in tight. His blend of power-forward can benefit any team immediately, but for how long? As mentioned above, Miller will be on the wrong side of 30 when his contract is up, so any team acquiring his services would be wise to bare that in mind. This situation & the many other rumors floating out there ought to keep us busy heading into the draft. Be sure to follow for more.