"Jim Rutherford is not a patient man": NHL insider deems Vancouver Canucks President as the "caveat" in J.T. Miller's trade

NHL insider Dennis Bernstein claimed Vancouver Canucks president Jim Rutherford was a key factor in discussions surrounding forward J.T. Miller. According to reports, the Canucks are actively exploring options to move Miller, with Carolina Hurricanes previously viewed as a strong candidate.

However, the Hurricanes have since exited the conversation after completing a blockbuster trade with the Colorado Avalanche for winger Mikko Rantanen. On "The Fourth Period" podcast, Bernstein discussed whether the Hurricanes' trade would influence the Canucks' approach to Miller.

"It's been a bad season, accept that, say that, okay, nothing's going to change in the next 32 games, not because of the players and not because of the strife in the room. I don't think that Demko is going to be 100% all season, and if you don't have 100% of Demko, I don't think they're a dangerous team," Bernstein said. (starts 5:06 onwards)

He advised the Canucks to be patient in their negotiations, particularly because Miller has a contract that requires a substantial return.

"So, I would wait. I would be more patient than Colorado and Carolina was on JT Miller because I think you need ... because that player has term, you have to get a comparable return for this player," he continued.

Bernstein noted that Jim Rutherford is known for his impatience, which could complicate the situation.

"I don't think you can do it in season. So, if I was Alvin and Rutherford, I would wait, but the one caveat there, Dave, is Jim Rutherford is not a patient man," he added.

The New York Rangers, J.T. Miller's former team, were considered a viable option for the forward. However, there was an unsuccessful deal that reportedly involved Filip Chytil, a first-round pick, and a prospect.

Miller has a seven-year, $56 million contract with the Canucks. The 31-year-old has racked up 33 points through eight goals and 25 assists in 38 games this season.

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Boston Bruins linked to J.T. Miller

According to Daily Faceoff's Frank Seravalli, the Boston Bruins is a potential destination for J.T. Miller.

Even though Miller had an outstanding season, Seravalli thinks Miller's trade value might not be as high as some might think. He pointed out that while the Bruins haven't been a primary focus in discussions about the forward, their need for a top-end center is well recognized.

Club president Cam Neely has indicated that the team might need to make some changes based on how the season is progressing. It suggests that the Bruins could be looking to enhance their roster, and J.T. Miller could be a valuable target option.