New York Rangers captain J.T. Miller facing harsh criticism as his production continues to decline
Photo credit: John Jones-Imagn Images
The 29th Captain of the New York Rangers, J.T. Miller, has taken some heat from fans today. The brunt of the criticism is his lack of production, and it could very well be related to a nagging injury that hasn't been addressed.
In the last five games with the New York Rangers, Captain J.T. Miller has seen a steady decline in production.
He's produced only one point during that time frame, while playing an average of 20:43 time on ice this season in 20 games.
Dismal production from someone the team depends on.
In 20 games this season, he's scored 9 points (4-5) with a -3 as a Blueshirt, not quite the lightning rod we'd hoped for.
There's an explanation aside from what could be an injury we think he's dealing with:
His overall offense and defense have declined, especially at even strength and on the power play.
The New York Rangers Need to Sit J.T. Miller
The New York Rangers Captain is on a pitiful pace this season, as he could end up scoring 37 points in 82 games this year.
That is, if the Rangers foolishly let him continue to play injured, per BlueLineStation:
From the moment the puck dropped on opening night, the signs were there if you looked closely. Miller needs an extra half-second to pivot, hesitates to drive the middle with his usual bite, and shows flashes of discomfort that add up over the course of a game.
The New York Rangers need to decide whether long-term success is better than short-term pain. It could turn into long-term pain if they continue to mismanage their talent once again. The drastic decision regarding the Rangers' Captain is Sullivan's to make.
Regardless, the criticism of his play is valid, but without addressing the underlying causes, it's a moot point.
Previously on NY Hockey Insider
| POLL | ||
NOVEMBRE 17 | 97 ANSWERS New York Rangers captain J.T. Miller facing harsh criticism as his production continues to decline Should the New York Rangers sit center J.T. Miller, whose production has declined? | ||
| Yes | 35 | 36.1 % |
| No | 62 | 63.9 % |
| List of polls | ||