Details about the rumored trade between the Vancouver Canucks and New York Rangers, which almost happened on Saturday, have started to emerge in the last 12-24 hours. The Rangers, reportedly eyeing J.T. Miller, were close to finalizing a deal that ultimately fell through at the last moment. While the exact reasons for the trade falling apart remain unclear, some information has begun to leak, though not officially confirmed.
Recent reports from Elliotte Friedman and the New York Post’s Larry Brooks confirm that the Rangers were in serious discussions with the Canucks about acquiring Miller. After Vancouver’s victory over the Edmonton Oilers on Saturday night, Miller stated, “I’m planning on being a Canuck today, tomorrow. Whatever happens, happens. I’m focused on the next game.” Initially, it was believed Miller might not play in the game as a trade was reportedly in the works, but the deal never materialized.
Friedman indicated that the Rangers were the team in talks, but while he didn’t name the players involved, speculation has surfaced. Mika Zibanejad was considered a likely candidate to be included, though reports also mention Alexis Lafrenière and Braden Schneider as potential pieces in the trade discussions.
Rangers Must Want Miller Badly If Considering This Trade
According to Brooks (h/t @BaldPanarin):
“Mika Zibanejad will not be part of the bounty going to Vancouver in a potential deal for Miller…It is believed that Alexis Lafreniere’s name has been prominent in the discussion.”
Alexis Lafrenière, the former first-overall pick, is said to have been a central figure in trade talks between the Vancouver Canucks and New York Rangers. The 21-year-old winger, who has 25 points in 45 games this season, has yet to fully live up to the lofty expectations of being a top draft pick, though his potential is undeniable. A potential trade of Lafrenière for the 31-year-old J.T. Miller, who recently signed a long-term deal worth $7.45 million annually, would certainly be a tough decision for the Rangers.
Another player reportedly involved in the discussions is Braden Schneider, a young defenseman who has caught the eye of the Canucks for some time. Although the Rangers haven’t seriously considered moving him, Schneider’s physical style and promising future make him an attractive option for Vancouver. As a reliable, up-and-coming defenseman, he could help shore up the Canucks’ blue line, and according to reports, Schneider is viewed as a crucial piece in any potential deal between the two teams.
Nothing Happening Between the Two Teams Right Now
At best, this trade is still on hold. While reports suggest the deal was close, it’s also been noted that the Canucks hadn’t yet asked J.T. Miller to waive his no-move clause, meaning there are still significant details to finalize.
Whether Lafrenière and Schneider are truly part of the package remains uncertain. For Rangers general manager Chris Drury, this potential trade could be a make-or-break moment. The outcome could have major implications for both the team’s immediate future and his own job security.
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