Shocking Trade Breakdown: Rangers' Chytil and Lindgren Almost Landed in Vancouver for J.T. Miller!

In a blockbuster deal that never materialized, Vancouver Canucks forward J.T. Miller was on the verge of being traded back to the New York Rangers. Reports reveal that the trade would have sent Rangers center Filip Chytil and defenseman Ryan Lindgren, alongside a package of future assets including a prized first-round draft pick, to Vancouver. However, negotiations faltered over disagreements surrounding the protection structure of that first-round pick, which became a significant sticking point.

This proposed trade came to light following the Canucks’ decision to almost bench Miller during a game against the Edmonton Oilers, fueling speculation about his future with the team. Ultimately, he played and contributed to a crucial 3-2 victory, racking up two assists—further showcasing his value on the ice.

Chytil, who is enjoying a solid season, has scored 10 goals and notched eight assists over 37 games while primarily serving as New York’s third-line center. Last season, he achieved career highs with 22 goals and 45 points, cementing his role within the team. His contract runs for two more seasons at a manageable $4.438 million cap hit, making him an attractive asset in any trade discussions.

On the other hand, Ryan Lindgren, once viewed as a dependable presence on the Rangers’ defense alongside star Adam Fox, has faced some challenges in recent seasons. Despite being an integral part of the team's defensive lineup for five years, his performance metrics have dropped significantly, and he currently finds himself as a pending unrestricted free agent with a $4.5 million cap hit.

The Canucks have not only been gauging the market for Miller but have also been evaluating interest in star center Elias Pettersson amidst reports of discord between the two elite forwards. While Pettersson has expressed his desire to remain with Vancouver, the franchise appears focused on keeping him at all costs.

Miller, signed through the 2029-30 season with an $8 million cap hit and a full no-movement clause, has not asked for a trade, though permission has been granted for some teams to inquire about his potential availability. Earlier in the season, the Canucks reportedly rebuffed a trade proposal from New York that would have involved a swap between Miller and Rangers’ standout Mika Zibanejad.

So far this season, Miller has racked up eight goals and 23 assists in 35 games, continuing a trend that has seen him average an impressive 95 points per year over the last three seasons, peaking with 103 points during the 2023-24 campaign. A former 15th overall draft pick by the Rangers in 2011, Miller has experienced significant growth in his game, making him one of the most sought-after forwards since his trade from Tampa Bay to Vancouver, where he truly began to shine.

As trade season approaches, fans will be eagerly watching the Canucks for any further developments involving their star players! Will J.T. Miller remain in Vancouver, or will negotiations spike once again? Stay tuned!