K'Andre Miller's progression as a defenseman with the New York Rangers has faced hurdles, especially in his contract year. The 25-year-old has been working to harness his skills after struggling with consistency early in the season. Despite facing criticism, he’s made strides to improve his game by focusing on mental health and finding balance outside of hockey. His recent performances have shown promise, especially after a return from injury, significantly contributing to the team's defensive metrics.

Coach Peter Laviolette praises Miller's collaboration with Will Borgen, pointing to their effective defensive pairing. However, Miller's ability to manage risk versus reward remains a topic of discussion, especially highlighted by a few critical errors in key games. As his contract situation looms large, the Rangers must decide whether to invest in him long-term, weighing his potential against the immediate need for roster upgrades on defense.