K’Andre Miller had a dream debut with the Carolina Hurricanes, demonstrating the potential that convinced the team to acquire him and sign him long-term.
Miller Shines in Debut with the Hurricanes
The defenseman K’Andre Miller didn’t need preseason games to get off to a good start with his new teammates on the Carolina Hurricanes. In the first game of the season, against the New Jersey Devils, Miller scored two goals, showing the quality that led the team to acquire him from the New York Rangers.With 6 feet 5 inches and 210 pounds, Miller spent much of the preseason wearing a non-contact jersey as a precaution, according to coach Rod Brind’Amour. In the game, he played more than 19 minutes and had 31 shifts, the most on the team, playing alongside Jalen Chatfield.It was incredible, I loved it.
K’Andre Miller
The Hurricanes see in Miller, a 25-year-old player and former first draft pick, a key piece for their aggressive system, thanks to his size and skating ability. Miller demonstrated his potential with the Rangers, accumulating 17 goals and 56 assists for a total of 73 points in the 2022-23 and 2023-24 seasons. After a less prominent season in New York, the Hurricanes signed him on the first day of free agency and offered him an eight-year contract with an average annual value of $7.5 million until the 2032-33 season. Carolina aims to advance towards the Cup, and trusts Miller to reinforce a system that relies on strong pressure to recover the puck and maintain the offense in the rival zone. In his debut with Carolina, Miller provided offense, in a game where the Hurricanes repeatedly hit the post against goalie Jacob Markstrom.I think it was exceptional. Aside from the goals, simply stunning.
Rod Brind’Amour
His first goal was unexpected, following a shot from the slot that apparently deflected off Devils forward Nico Hischier to make the score 2-1 midway through the second period.
The second goal, in the third period, was a powerful shot from the left circle that went into the net.Miller’s second goal caused euphoria among the home fans, celebrating enthusiastically and asking for more support.Two very different goals.
Seth Jarvis
I think that was one of the most important things, just making a good first impression. I think the guys have done an incredible job of getting me up to speed. And this adjustment period has honestly been very simple. Very easy, and all the guys are pushing me in the right direction.
K’Andre Miller
