Every week, The Maven opens his column for questions about the Blueshirts. The following gem comes via Mark Linde from Manhattan.
"IS IT ONLY ME OR HAS K'ANDRE MILLER TOTALLY LOST HIS WAY?"
The Maven Replies: No, Mark, I've also had my questions about Miller and his defensive abilities in terms of positioning and giveaways. The Hockey News lists K'Andre as the Rangers second-best defenseman after Adam Fox. I disagree. I'd rate him in fourth place, behind Ryan Lindgren and Braden Schneider.
Let's face it, Miller is not a Norris Trophy candidate and was not a major hellp during crunch time last year. But he also has assets both offensively and on the blue line. I also suggest that he may also be one who suffered from a p.r. build-up to a letdown.
My conclusion is that – like many defensemen – he still needs more time to grow into his role on the blue line. He's only 24.
Let's talk about him a year from now. If he hasn't improved by then. I would expect management to put him on the trading block!