Mike Sullivan’s New York Rangers likely to test bold experiment with $68M forward Mika Zibanejad on wing beside J.T. Miller
Mike Sullivan’s New York Rangers likely to test bold experiment with $68M forward Mika Zibanejad on wing beside J.T. Miller
New York Rangers forward Mika Zibanejad has signaled his willingness to switch from center to right wing, opening the door for a new-look lineup under recently appointed head coach Mike Sullivan.
The move, which would pair Zibanejad with J.T. Miller, comes as the Rangers seek to maximize chemistry and strengthen their forward depth ahead of the 2025 NHL season.
At the World Championship in Stockholm, Zibanejad discussed his role with Sullivan, noting how natural it felt to play alongside J.T. Miller late last season. Miller, who arrived from the Vancouver Canucks in January, quickly developed on-ice chemistry with Zibanejad. Both forwards demonstrated the ability to rotate seamlessly during faceoffs and adjust to each other’s style of play.
Sullivan confirmed these discussions, emphasizing their versatility. “They both have a comfort level playing down low in the defensive zone.
They both have a comfort level in the face-off circle with one being a righty and one being a lefty,” Sullivan said. The coach added that their complementing skill sets could benefit the Rangers across all zones
Vincent Trocheck, who remains a vital part of the Rangers’ center depth, is also expected to play a key role in Sullivan’s system.
With Trocheck anchoring one line and Miller potentially centering Zibanejad, New York would boast three strong two-way centermen capable of winning faceoffs and driving possession. This gives Sullivan flexibility to experiment with line combinations throughout camp.
