According to Josh Yohe from The Athletic, the New York Rangers proposed a trade to the Vancouver Canucks that was not well-received. There has been ongoing speculation that Rangers’ GM Chris Drury is interested in reacquiring J.T. Miller and has inquired about his availability. However, earlier reports indicated that no trade offers were actually made. Yohe’s report contradicts that, claiming a potential one-for-one trade was proposed, where Mika Zibanejad would be exchanged for Miller.
He states:
“Earlier this season, the Rangers offered the struggling center Mika Zibanejad to Vancouver in exchange for Miller, but the Canucks rejected the deal. It’s well-known that the Rangers have a strong interest in Miller, who was drafted by New York in 2011 and spent his first six NHL seasons with them.”
This is certainly intriguing given the earlier rumors.
Did the Rangers Consult Zibanejad About a Trade?
It’s important to note that both players hold no-move clauses in their contracts. The Rangers may have made an offer with the intention of discussing it with Zibanejad if it was accepted, or perhaps Vancouver made a counteroffer. However, no reports have surfaced indicating that the Rangers spoke to Zibanejad regarding waiving his no-move clause. There were suggestions that he might agree to do so for the right trade. Was this the opportunity?
In December, Nick Alberga from Leafs Nation mentioned that the Maple Leafs might consider pursuing a trade for Zibanejad. He noted, “It would be a complex deal, but at the very least, I think the Leafs should check on Mika Zibanejad’s availability.” He also mentioned that his sources indicated Zibanejad would be open to waiving his no-move clause for an attractive deal.
Were the Canucks Uninterested Then… Are They Now?
A lot can change in a month or two. The Canucks likely turned down the trade proposal because they valued Miller more than Zibanejad at that time. However, it’s reasonable to assume that the tensions between Miller and Elias Pettersson have intensified since then.
Would the Rangers consider approaching the Canucks again with a new offer involving these two key players? And would the Canucks be more willing to negotiate given the recent developments?
