After suffering another setback in the Eastern Conference Final, the Carolina Hurricanes have enhanced their roster with the acquisition of defenseman K’Andre Miller from the New York Rangers.

In this transaction, the Rangers received a conditional first-round pick in 2026, a second-round pick for the same year, and defenseman Scott Morrow in exchange for Miller, previously a restricted free agent. Following this, Miller signed an eight-year deal with the Hurricanes, averaging $7.5 million annually.

According to Elliotte Friedman from Sportsnet, the two franchises navigated through a sign-and-trade arrangement as the Hurricanes looked to recruit Miller through an offer sheet.

Miller completed his fourth season with the Rangers, contributing 27 points (seven goals, 20 assists) in 74 games. His peak season was in 2022-23 when he achieved 43 points (nine goals, 34 assists) across 79 games.

The Rangers deemed Miller redundant after securing defenseman Vladislav Gavrikov from the Los Angeles Kings for a seven-year, $49 million contract. Gavrikov is expected to team up with Adam Fox, establishing New York’s top pairing on defense.

Trade Breakdown

• Hurricanes Receive:
  • K’Andre Miller (D)
• Rangers Receive:
  • Conditional 2026 first-round pick (top 10 protected)
  • 2026 second-round pick
  • Scott Morrow (D)

Grades

Carolina Hurricanes

The Hurricanes needed to revamp their defense, as both Dmitry Orlov and Brent Burns became unrestricted free agents recently. By securing Miller, Carolina not only bolstered their defense but also brought in youth, potentially setting them up for future success.

Despite some regression in Miller’s performance over the last two seasons, his potential remains high as he nears his career peak, and he arrives without heavy physical wear. As a two-way defenseman with excellent skating capabilities and a powerful shot, Miller should thrive in a supporting role behind Jaccob Slavin, likely partnering with Jalen Chatfield or Shayne Gostisbehere in the second defensive pairing. The expectation from the Hurricanes is that he will recapture his earlier form, a gamble for a $7.5 million cap space hit.

• Grade: B-

New York Rangers

The Rangers, after missing the playoffs for the first time in four years, face pressure for roster changes. Miller’s earlier career peak of 43 points saw a reduction, leading to this trade. The Rangers acquired just Scott Morrow, who has played 16 NHL games, mostly spending his time in the AHL, as well as valuable draft picks. Overall, this trade provides New York with solid potential for future development while creating immediate space in the roster.

• Grade: B+