Rangers captain J.T. Miller ‘honored’ to win award named for franchise icon
J. T. Miller’s first full season back with the New York Rangers had its share of accolades, despite the disappointment of missing the Stanley Cup Playoffs.
The latest achievement came Thursday, when Miller was named the winner of the Rod Gilbert Mr. Ranger Award. The award, which was presented by Gilbert’s widow, Judy, recognizes the Rangers player “who best honors Rod’s legacy by exemplifying leadership qualities both on and off the ice and making a significant humanitarian contribution to his community.
” Miller represented the Rangers in numerous community initiatives this season. In addition, he and his wife Natalie, who are the parents of three children, made a record donation of $154,000 to The Garden of Dreams Foundation. “I’m so honored,” Miller told MSG Networks during a between periods interview.
“It’s a very special thing for me and my family, and my wife Natalie. Mr. Gilbert was obviously a heck of a hockey player, but he was an unbelievable person.
I got to know him a little my first time here, and seeing what he means to the team and the city and the franchise is really special. “I feel really honored for this, and it’s a humbling thing for my family and [me]. ” Prior to the start of training camp, the Rangers named Miller the 29th captain in franchise history.