J.T. Miller has been named the 29th captain in the New York Rangers' franchise history. The announcement was made by Rangers President and General Manager Chris Drury. Miller, a 32-year-old forward, is stepping into the role after Jacob Trouba was traded to the Anaheim Ducks in December. The team went without a captain for the remainder of the season.

Drury expressed his confidence in Miller's leadership abilities, stating that Miller "immediately became a leader for our group and exemplifies how we want to conduct ourselves both on and off the ice" since rejoining the team last season. He also noted that Miller represents the organization with "class, commitment, and integrity".

Miller was originally drafted by the Rangers in the first round of the 2011 NHL Draft and spent the first six years of his career with the team. He then played for the Tampa Bay Lightning and the Vancouver Canucks before being traded back to New York in January. In 32 games after returning to the Rangers, Miller recorded 13 goals and 22 assists, totaling 35 points.

During his time with the Canucks, Miller established himself as a leader, serving as an alternate captain for four seasons. He also achieved career highs in goals and received votes for the Hart and Selke Trophies. Over his 871 career NHL games, Miller has amassed 260 goals and 449 assists. In addition, Miller has consistently demonstrated his skill in face-offs, achieving a win percentage of 53.0% or higher in the last six seasons. Since the 2019-20 season, his 56.1% face-off win percentage is tied for ninth-highest in the NHL among players with a minimum number of face-offs.

According to reports, Mika Zibanejad, Adam Fox, Artemi Panarin, and Vincent Trocheck will serve as alternate captains this season. Zibanejad, Fox, and Panarin were also alternate captains last season. Trocheck is replacing Chris Kreider, who was part of the leadership group last season.

Miller's leadership style has been described as intense and sometimes abrasive, both on and off the ice. However, Rangers management clearly values his approach and believes he can positively influence the team's culture. Some have noted Miller's ability to elevate his game and inspire his teammates during critical moments. He is known for his vocal presence and willingness to challenge and motivate his team. This is further demonstrated by his gesture to Tyler Myers, offering his assistant captain role for a game to honor Myers' 1,000th NHL game.

With a seven-year, $56 million contract that includes a full no-movement clause, Miller is committed to the Rangers through the 2029-30 season. The Rangers are hoping that Miller's leadership will help the team achieve its goals and compete for a Stanley Cup.