New York Rangers Name Their Next Captain

There were just three teams in the NHL without a captain for this season, but with the New York Rangers naming their next captain, that small group shrinks even further. The Rangers have named J.T. Miller as the captain. Chris Johnston said that "he's viewed internally as the embodiment of how the team wants to conduct business, on and off the ice."

To me, this statement speaks to the hard work and drive to win. The Rangers missed the playoffs last season and some changes were made. While some veterans were moved out, Miller was brought in. This wasn't a half-year plan to just get back into the playoffs. The team took advantage of the Vancouver Canucks' situation and got an elite center who has five years left on his deal at $8 million AAV, which is currently a steal.

Frank Seravalli said the "team has been impressed with his role setting the culture since his reacquisition." Miller is 32 years old, but still very much at the top of his game, both offensively and defensively. Since going to Vancouver, he has received Selke Trophy votes in four of the six seasons to follow. Along with that, he has put up 165 goals and 472 points in 436 games.

Bringing Miller over to the Rangers also helped other players as well, most importantly Mika Zibanejad who was struggling. It allowed the team to move Zibanejad over to the wing and have less responsibility, instantly forming chemistry with Miller. The new captain of the Rangers finished the season with 13 goals and 35 points in 32 games, playing 18:31 per game and recording 76 hits.

Miller brings his team into the fight on and off the ice and is one of the most competitive players in the NHL. The Rangers have a good chance to return to the playoffs with the new look, Miller on the team for a full season, and under his new leadership.

Photo credit: © Danny Wild-Imagn Images