The ongoing drama between the Vancouver Canucks J.T. MIller and Elias Pettersson is reaching a peak where a trade seems imminent. Both players have tremendous value and would fetch a nice return to a Vancouver team that seems to be in the thick of a tight Pacific Division. The question is if Miller is dealt, which one of these three teams need him the most?
Three suitors for Canucks' Miller?
Boston Bruins
The Boston Bruins are in deep trouble and are not having the typical Bruins season. This team is desperate for an offensive, two-way player that also plays with grit. Miller is all of those. he would immediately slot in as the first-line center to play with Brad Marchand. Right now the Bruins' top two centers are Pavel Zacha and Elias Lindholm. Adding Miller would give them a top-tier center and push those two down to give them some center depth.
Toronto Maple Leafs
One may look at the Toronto Maple Leafs and say they are set at the forward position. However, they could use an upgrade at the center position. Auston Matthews, John Tavares, and Miller at center? That would have a huge impact in the playoffs where Toronto has struggled. The hold up could be what Vancouver would want in return for him. Does Toronto have the pieces or draft capital to acquire a talent like MIller?
Detroit Red Wings
This one could surprise some people but it may make the most sense. Captain Dylan Larkin has been pulling the weight of this team on his back since he first stepped foot on the ice. Detroit needs some additional scoring. Now that Detroit has some depth scoring, they have been on a bit of a heater. Aside from Larkin, Detroit does not have center depth and could use a player like Miller to take them to the playoffs. Unlike Boston and Toronto, Detroit does have the assets and draft picks to complete this level of a deal. Maybe one worth watching.
While he is 31 years old, the 6-foot-1 and 28- pound Miller is still a vital player in the league and contributes offensively. He has eight goals and 21 assists for 29 points in 30 games and has 24 penalty minutes. With signing a seven-year/ $56 million deal, he is under contract until 2030.
It has not been revealed if MIller, Pettersson, both, or none will be moved but if it is MIller, he can be a massive addition to a playoff contender or a team looking to win the Stanley Cup. If the drama continues, one of them has to go because Vancouver is still in the mix for a playoff spot. The ask for Miller might be big but to acquire a player of his skill set may be worth it. Time is ticking on this situation and it may not come without a cost.