By KDA Sports | May 1, 2025 | New York, NY
The New York Rangers are locking in one of their most physically gifted defensemen for the long term.
On Wednesday, the team announced they’ve agreed to a new deal with 25-year-old blueliner K’Andre Miller, ending months of speculation about whether the former first-round pick would be re-signed or traded. The contract is reported to be a five-year deal worth $27.5 million — carrying a $5.5 million average annual value.
The signing signals a major vote of confidence from General Manager Chris Drury, who is betting that Miller, despite recent growing pains, still has the upside to become a top-pair defenseman.
“This is a player we believe in,” Drury said in a statement. “K’Andre is just scratching the surface of what he can become, and we’re excited to see him continue to grow as a key part of our core.”
A Divisive Decision — But the Rangers Commit
Miller’s future with the team had been a hot topic in New York. While his size, athleticism, and skating ability have always stood out, his play over the past two seasons has been inconsistent. Turnovers, missed assignments, and a drop in offensive output left some wondering whether the Rangers should move on while his trade value remained high.
Instead, the front office is doubling down.
Miller has played 368 NHL games, mostly in a shutdown role, and logged heavy minutes against top competition. Though he recorded just 19 points this season — down from 43 the year before — the Rangers believe he’ll bounce back, especially under a potentially new coaching system next season.
Betting on Potential, Not Perfection
The contract offers financial flexibility compared to top-tier defensemen around the league, while giving Miller room to rediscover his offensive game and refine his decision-making in the defensive zone.
Insiders say the deal includes no-move protection in the final two years — a sign the Rangers expect Miller to be a fixture on their blue line for the foreseeable future.
“I’ve always wanted to stay here,” Miller said following the announcement. “New York is home to me now, and I’m ready to prove I can take my game to another level.”
What’s Next for the Blue Line
With Miller re-signed, the Rangers now turn their attention to retooling their blue line around him and Adam Fox. The future of depth defenders like Zac Jones and the status of veteran Carson Soucy are still to be decided.
But for now, the Rangers have made their position clear: K’Andre Miller is part of the plan — and they’re betting he’ll rise to the occasion.
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