NHL Rumors: Rangers eye bringing back Canucks star center J.T. Miller amid long absence

J.T. Miller is currently away from the Vancouver Canucks. While he's on a leave of absence, other teams are reportedly looking to see if they can swing a trade. The New York Rangers, a team Miller formerly played for, have inquired about that.

According to The Athletic's Arthur Staple and Peter Baugh, the Rangers have spoken to the Canucks. Miller is seeking help for himself, and it's unclear if he'd welcome a change in scenery at this time. He has spoken at length about trying to manage emotions lately but needed some time off from the sport.

He hasn't played since Nov. 17. For almost two weeks, he has been out of action while he tries to reset himself. The Rangers at least felt that his leave of absence was worth inquiring about as they try and turn around a 12-8-1 start to the year.

The Canucks are 11-7-3 to start the year and, aside from Miller's non-injury-related absence, are missing a few key pieces right now. It is unclear if the Canucks are willing to move one of their best players this early in the year.

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Canucks GM opens up on J.T. Miller's absence

Vancouver Canucks general manager Patrik Allvin spoke about J.T. Miller being away from the team. He has been off the ice for personal reasons for the last 12 days. The team has struggled to start the NHL season.

J.T. Miller is still away from the Canucks right now (Imagn)

“First and foremost, I'm very proud of J.T. seeking help,” Allvin said Monday in an interview with Sportsnet. “I don't know if he said it, but I believe that he's going to be a better person, better teammate and better hockey player when he returns. And we sure miss him; he's such an impactful hockey player. I think we have and the league has all the right support to help him.”

Miller had appeared in 17 games for the Canucks before he left the team. He has recorded 16 points (six goals, 10 assists), had nine penalty minutes and was +1 on the year.