J.T. Miller Announcement Sparks Trade Rumors Between Vancouver Canucks & Los Angeles Kings

The nature behind J.T. Millers leave of absence has caused many rumors to come to the surface, but none having any real merit.

One rumor suggested it was due to an injury, that Miller has been playing through some ailments that have been keeping him from being the game breaking forward Canucks fans are used to seeing.

While the Vancouver Canucks organization has briefly insisted that his exit is unrelated to anything related to the benching or extra curriculars like substance abuse, fans can't help wonder if there is something more going on.

According to NHL Trade Rumors, the reason for his leave could be the fact that he could be on the move.

If that is the case, the Los Angeles Kings have exactly what the Canucks need to upgrade their team.

The deal proposed would be to send Miller to the Kings for defenseman Vladislav Gavrikov, a promising young prospect forward in Arthur Kaliyev, and a 2025 first-round draft pick.

One clear fact is, if Miller is unhappy being on the Canucks, then the choice has to be made to trade him and get a return that makes sense.

By receiving Vladislav Gavrikov, it addresses their clear defensive needs.

Gavrikov is a reliable two-way puck moving defenseman who would be a significant upgrade on their second d-pairing.

His 6'3 frame brings size and physicality to a blue line that has struggled in this department.

Arthur Kaliyev, is a skilled and smart winger who doesn't replace Miller, but has loads of potential that can be unlocked on a new team, if given a bigger role.

Additionally

While of course this trade is all speculative, the deal actually makes a slot of sense for both NHL clubs.

The Canucks fill glaring holes in their lineup and the LA Kings get a bonified top-2 center in Miller while they make a push for a Stanley Cup Run.