K’Andre Miller has been traded from the New York Rangers to the Carolina Hurricanes and has immediately committed to his new team by signing an eight-year, $60 million contract. The deal, which carries a $7.5 million average annual value, marks a major commitment from both player and team.
At 25 years old, Miller was a restricted free agent coming off a strong season. The Rangers received a significant package in return: defenseman Scott Morrow, a 2026 second-round draft pick, and a conditional first-round pick in either 2026 or 2027.
Hurricanes’ Fast-Paced System Aligns Perfectly With Miller’s Skating and Defensive Strengths
Miller expressed enthusiasm about joining the Hurricanes, noting that their speed and team-oriented approach complement his style of play. He emphasized Carolina’s success and the fun, fast-moving brand of hockey they play.
The defenseman said he’s particularly excited to now be on the same side of the ice as a team that was a frequent and difficult opponent during his time in New York. The Hurricanes’ aggressive transition game and emphasis on pace seem to be a perfect fit for Miller’s development trajectory.
K’Andre Miller )NHL)Originally selected 22nd overall by the Rangers in the 2018 NHL Draft, Miller has accumulated 132 points (36 goals, 96 assists) over 368 regular-season games, along with 12 points in 43 playoff appearances. Last season, he posted 27 points in 74 games.
Hurricanes general manager Eric Tulsky acknowledged the steep cost of acquiring Miller but emphasized the team’s priority of preserving their current roster. Tulsky stated the trade was aligned with Carolina’s vision, adding a player who enhances their defensive strength and fits seamlessly into their system.
Miller Embraces Fresh Start in Carolina, Rangers Acquire Promising Young Defenseman Morrow
Miller revealed that while he sensed a trade might happen during the offseason, he distanced himself from speculation by turning off his phone and social media. He described the day of the trade as life-changing for both himself and his family.
Despite uncertainty surrounding his future in New York, Miller said he used the offseason to focus on mental and physical preparation. Now in Carolina, he believes he’s in an excellent position to thrive in a system that leverages his speed, ability to join the rush, and defensive capabilities.
In addition to Miller, the trade brought 22-year-old defenseman Scott Morrow to the Rangers. Morrow, a former second-round pick, had limited NHL experience last season but showed promise in the AHL. The conditional first-round pick includes protection clauses: the Rangers will receive the better of the Hurricanes’ or Stars’ first-rounder in 2026 unless one is a top 10 pick, in which case the lower pick is awarded.
If both are top 10 selections, the Rangers will receive the better pick in 2027. The trade was announced the same day the Rangers signed defenseman Vladislav Gavrikov to a seven-year, $49 million contract.
