The New York Rangers are reportedly considering trading restricted free agent K’Andre Miller during the 2024 offseason as they face significant salary cap constraints, according to David Pagnotta of Fourth Period. Discussions from Elliotte Friedman on the 32 Thoughts podcast also highlighted the Rangers’ urgent need to free up cap room, making Miller’s potential departure a distinct possibility. Miller, currently earning $7.44 million on a two-year contract, is expected to seek a raise, which may not align with New York’s financial plans, prompting the team to seek trade returns before his free agency.
Why Anaheim Ducks Remain a Leading Suitor for Miller
The Anaheim Ducks emerge as a logical trade destination due to their recent collaboration with the Rangers, notably the significant trade involving former New York captain Jacob Trouba. Miller’s familiarity with Trouba and the Ducks’ large available cap space — nearly $39 million — make Anaheim a strong fit. The Ducks currently lack long-term defensive signings beyond the upcoming season, and acquiring Miller would provide a foundational defenseman to support their rebuilding efforts. This combination of cap capacity and team needs positions Anaheim as a prime candidate to acquire Miller’s rights.
LA Kings Addressing Possible Defensive Departures
The Los Angeles Kings could pursue Miller as a solution if they lose Vladislav Gavrikov, their top defenseman, who is expected to explore free agency with multiple teams interested in his services. The Kings would face a notable gap on their blue line if Gavrikov departs, and Miller’s work ethic and stamina would align well with coach Jim Hiller’s strategy of shortening the bench late in games. With approximately $22 million in cap space and no significant free-agent signings planned, the Kings have both the financial and roster flexibility to add Miller as a key component of their defense moving forward.
Utah Mammoth’s Defensive Needs Point to Miller as a Solution
The Utah Mammoth have focused on strengthening their defensive corps, adding Mikhail Sergachev as a top pair defenseman and benefiting from Sean Durzi’s emergence. Despite these assets, injuries disrupted their defensive lineup earlier in the season, creating openings that Miller could fill effectively. The Mammoth have over $21 million in cap space, allowing room to acquire Miller and stabilize their blue line with two strong defensive pairings. However, the main negotiation challenge will be what the Rangers receive in return for Miller’s rights during the offseason trade discussions.
Impact of Miller’s Trade on Rangers and Potential Destinations
The possible trade of K’Andre Miller reflects the Rangers’ balancing act between salary management and roster competitiveness. Finding the right destination for Miller is essential both for New York to manage its cap and for the receiving team to strengthen their defensemate. Each potential suitor — Anaheim Ducks, Los Angeles Kings, and Utah Mammoth — offers different strategic benefits, capitalizing on Miller’s skills and contract status. How the negotiations unfold will shape the Rangers’ offseason plans and influence the defensive outlook for these interested teams in the 2024 season and beyond.