Welcome to your New York Rangers offseason grades! It ultimately did not end the way the organization wanted it to, but there was a lot of jog and excitement. It is summertime for the Rangers, but that does not mean we cannot reminisce on the season. Today we will look at K’Andre Miller’s offseason grade.
New York Rangers Offseason Grades
Report Card: K’Andre Miller
Along with a lineup of veterans, there are young guns on the team. That is where this New York Rangers offseason grade comes in. A lot of the excitement was surrounding Alexis Lafreniere in 2020, but there is another player to be geared up about. Only this time it comes from the back end. K’Andre Miller has emerged as a particular player for the team. Miller has grown his game to new levels and established himself as a top-four defenseman on this roster. This year was a career year for him, and really showed promise for the future.
The Season
What a good year for Miller. The growth he showed in his game is great to see. Especially because he is a restricted free agent and needs a new contract. This season Miller went on to have nine goals, 34 assists, and 43 points. He doubled his production from last season. With his smooth skating and ability to push the play forward, Miller was a treat to watch this season. In addition, he went on to have two game-winning goals this season, which tied his total from last season.
Miller did some other things as well that stood out. He was as physical as his defensive partner (162 hits) and was willing to sacrifice his body (105 blocked shots). In addition, Miller had the second most takeaways on the team (61). Not only has he shown growth in his offensive game, but with his defence as well. However, there was one problem that he ran into. His defensive giveaways were bad as he led the team with 55. Miller went on to finish the year with a 50% Corsi For, and expected goals of 47.4%.
All around, Miller made the most of his opportunities and showed growth and promise at both ends of the ice.
The Playoffs
This segway for the New York Rangers offseason grade takes a dive. Like many other players on this roster, Miller had a poor performance. All he had to show for his strong regular season was one assist. Miller maintained his physicality and ability to create turnovers, but overall the Devils made him pay. New Jersey found ways to cave him in as he accounted for the second most expected goals against (9.02). In addition, New Jersey was able to generate the most high-danger chances when he was on the ice (47). Overall the team got outplayed and in the end, exposed a younger K’Andre Miller. It is unfortunate, but it is a good experience and something he can learn from going into his fourth season.
The Verdict
The player is easy to root for and that’s what makes this New York Rangers offseason grade fun. Miller showed elevation and growth in his game. In addition, he established himself as a piece to the puzzle going forward. The club has the core locked up for the long haul. However, Chris Drury has tough decisions to make this offseason regarding his future. Changes will be coming and some have already happened. But with the limited cap space, decisions will need to be made. The potential in his game is there as he can build on a strong season. Worth the gamble is you are a betting man and a piece to build around.
Verdict: B
Main Photo: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
