Report: 1 Player Would "Definitely" Be Part Of Any J.T. Miller Trade To Avalanche

Thursday, January 30, 2025

The Colorado Avalanche are aggressively pursuing a true second-line center following their blockbuster trade of Mikko Rantanen to the Carolina Hurricanes. 

While Martin Necas and Jack Drury were part of the return, neither is a natural fit at center, leaving Colorado looking for an upgrade. 

J.T. Miller has emerged as a serious trade target, with Colorado Hockey Now reporting that the Avalanche now have the cap flexibility to make a move. 

“Miller as a No. 2 center behind MacKinnon for the foreseeable future would bolster Colorado’s top six,” wrote Aarif Deen, emphasizing the veteran forward’s intensity and playoff pedigree.

If Colorado moves forward with a deal for Miller, Casey Mittelstadt is almost certain to be part of the return heading to Vancouver, according to Deen. 

After a strong start to the season, Mittelstadt has struggled, posting just nine goals and 31 total points in 52 games while seeing his ice time diminish. 

Head coach Jared Bednar has recently preferred Juuso Parssinen in key situations, pushing Mittelstadt further down the lineup. 

The Canucks have previously shown interest in the 25-year-old, who is signed at a $5.75 million cap hit through 2027. Vancouver, in need of additional center depth, could view Mittelstadt as a younger, cost-controlled piece worth acquiring if they decide to part ways with Miller.

Miller’s contract carries an $8 million cap hit through 2030, making it a big commitment for any team, but Colorado’s willingness to move on from Rantanen shows they are open to major moves. 

The Avalanche have the assets to make a trade happen, whether through additional salary cap maneuvering or by adding picks and prospects to the deal.

Photo Credit: Bob Frid-Imagn Images

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