The New York Rangers have officially named J.T. Miller as the 29th captain in franchise history, a decision that underscores the team’s commitment to blending veteran leadership with emerging talent. Miller, 32, rejoined the Rangers last season after a mid-year trade from the Vancouver Canucks, immediately leaving his mark both on the scoresheet and in the locker room.
Miller brings a combination of veteran experience and fiery competitiveness, having recorded 35 points (13 goals, 22 assists) in just 32 games last season. His presence helped stabilize a top-six forward group during one of the most turbulent stretches for the Rangers in recent memory.
The captaincy had been vacant since Jacob Trouba was traded earlier this year, leaving the Rangers searching for a figure capable of setting the tone on and off the ice. Miller’s mix of experience, consistent production, and commitment to accountability made him the clear choice for head coach Mike Sullivan and management.
Why was Miller the clear choice for NY Rangers captain?
Miller’s recent track record highlights why he was chosen. Across the 2024–25 season, he tallied 70 points in 72 games while maintaining physical and defensive responsibility. “Since his arrival last season, J.T. immediately became a leader for our group and exemplifies how we want to conduct ourselves both on and off the ice,” Rangers president Chris Drury said, according to NHL.com.
His ability to combine offensive production with physicality is rare in the modern NHL. Miller is also a reliable faceoff man, a trait that enhances team stability during crucial moments. His leadership experience as an alternate captain in Vancouver from 2021–22 through his trade to New York further prepared him for the captaincy.
Who makes up the Rangers’ full leadership group for 2025–26?
Miller has officially been named the Rangers captain for the 2025–26 season. The alternate captains are reportedly Mika Zibanejad, Artemi Panarin, Adam Fox, and Vincent Trocheck.
“Rangers full leadership group: Captain: J.T. Miller. Alternate captains: Mika Zibanejad, Artemi Panarin, Adam Fox and Vincent Trocheck. Zibanejad, Fox and Panarin wore A’s last year, and now Trocheck joins the group, per source,” Peter Baugh of The Athletic reported on X.
SURVEY Who benefits most from J.T. Miller being named Rangers captain?
Who benefits most from J.T. Miller being named Rangers captain?
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What does this mean for the next season?
Miller will now lead a roster that balances seasoned veterans with rising stars such as Brennan Othmann and Will Cuylle. His presence is expected to elevate team accountability and culture, as New York seeks a deeper playoff run in a competitive Eastern Conference. With Miller at the helm, the Rangers will enter training camp with a clear direction and identity.