NHL trade rumors: Insider sheds light on NY Rangers' trade package rejected by Canucks for blockbuster J.T. Miller deal

The Vancouver Canucks and New York Rangers reportedly discussed a trade for forward J.T. Miller on Saturday. According to reports, the Rangers’ offer included center Filip Chytil, defenseman Ryan Lindgren and future assets like a first-round pick. However, the trade fell through due to disagreements over the protection structure of the draft pick.

After a 5-1 loss to the Los Angeles Kings, rumors about Miller being traded grew strong. NHL insider Elliotte Friedman noted that Miller was expected to sit out against the Edmonton Oilers. Despite the trade talks, Miller played and contributed two points.

The Athletic's Sources confirmed that the Canucks’ management spent hours discussing the deal on Saturday, but the trade didn't move forward. It didn’t reach the stage where Miller was asked to waive his no-trade clause.

"One source briefed on the trade talks indicated that a disagreement on the protection structure of a first-round pick was a key hurdle. That the prospective return seems relatively meager given Miller’s stature," said The Athletic's NHL staffs including Thomas Drance in their column on Monday.

While the proposed return seemed modest for Miller’s value, the Canucks are reportedly considering changes to their roster. Discussions about both J.T. Miller and Elias Pettersson have been ongoing for weeks amidst their rift rumors.

The Canucks’ have lost 11 of their last 15 games. They are fifth in the Pacific Division with 50 points, with a 20-15-10 record.

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Insider Elliotte Friedman confirmed J.T. Miller didn't veto trade to Rangers

NHL insider Elliotte Friedman shared details of the failed trade involving forward J.T. Miller.

On Monday's "32 Thoughts" podcast, Friedman explained that the trade was close but unexpectedly fell apart. Miller was reportedly told that the deal was progressing, but something changed overnight, stopping the talks.

Friedman also addressed rumors that Miller had asked for a trade, but he didn't confirm that.

"I think they had something going with the Rangers, and I think it fell apart," Friedman said on the podcast.

"And I don't know. I have some theories, but I just don't have enough proof. I don't think Miller vetoed it. I just for whatever reason, I just don't think it got to the finish line."

The trade situation was the prime reason behind the sincere performance of Canucks against the Oilers. Miller now has 31 points, including eight goals this season.