Their first big external move of the offseason, the Hurricanes' addition of K'Andre Miller on July 1st, shocked many in the hockey world. While it was clear the Rangers would have a tough time signing Miller after adding Vladislav Gavrikov when the market opened, I was surprised to see him land in the division, let alone in Raleigh with the Canes.
Miller was selected in the 1st round of the 2018 Draft, going 22nd overall to the Big Apple. He debuted during the shortened and realigned 2021 season, recording 12 points in 53 games and finishing 12th in Calder Trophy voting. Over his five full seasons with the Rangers, Miller has consistently played 21-to-22 minutes per night while using every inch of his imposing 6'5" stature.
The Rangers and the Hurricanes completed a sign-and-trade once free agency began. Miller agreed to an 8-year, $60 million deal before being shipped to Raleigh. The return was defenseman Scott Morrow, a conditional 1st-round pick in 2026, and a 2nd-round pick in 2026. It's a big gamble for the Canes, but it's one that I feel will pay dividends immediately.
Last season: 7-20-27 in 74 games (with NY Rangers)
With the numbers he had to begin last season, Miller would've fit in perfectly with the Canes. Through mid-January, he managed just two goals and five assists in 35 games, failing to string much together for New York. Business picked up when he went on a three-game point streak in mid-January, seemingly turning his season around. He recorded 20 points over his final 35 games.
The Rangers went from the President's Trophy to missing the postseason. While his finish was solid, Miller's 27 points were his fewest since 2021-22, though similar sentiments could be shared for several players on their roster. However, Miller finished second on the Rangers in blocks (110) and was one of two defensemen with 100+ blocks and 100+ hits, along with Braden Schneider.
Bold Prediction: Miller outperforms Gavrikov this season
Fairly or unfairly, a lot of comparisons will be made between Miller and Gavrikov this season, especially since the former King and Blue Jacket is essentially Miller's replacement in the Rangers' lineup. Between these respective fan bases, there is likely to be plenty of head-to-heads pitting the defensemen against each other. In this, I believe Miller has the edge.
The first step will be determining who Miller's defensive partner is this season. While Gavrikov is almost certainly being paired with Adam Fox, it's not clear who Rod Brind'Amour will pair Miller with. Offseason speculation suggests that Jaccob Slavin is the most likely option, pairing two lefties together. I've also seen Jalen Chatfield as a potential option.
Historically, Miller has the statistical edge over Gavrikov, too. While they've averaged similar time on ice during their careers, Miller has seen higher peaks than Gavrikov. Miller set his career high with 43 points in 2022-23, while Gavrikov topped out at 33 the year prior. Gavrikov did score three more points last season, albeit in eight more games.
Miller's age makes a long-term deal feel less risky for the Hurricanes, though he's going to be the highest-paid defenseman on the roster this season, making over $1 million more than Slavin. If he comes out of the block slowly, people outside of Raleigh, and even some within it, will be quick to call this a mistake. Regardless, Miller is positioned to be a big part of the team moving forward.