J.T. Miller exclusive: NY Rangers building around center who plays 'on a sharp sword'

J.T. Miller : "I play on a sharp sword. I've been like that since I was a kid. I always want more. It’s just a part of my DNA, really” Miller : “My whole career, I feel like I have something to prove all the time. I think people that know me as a teammate and a friend and a player, they understand my game and understand that's just part of who I am”.

Miller thrives in the tight-checking environment the Rangers have struggled with on recent playoff runs.

The Rangers have gone 9-6-2 since the acquisition of Miller from Tampa Bay .

He's infused a ferocity the lineup lacked, which Vincent Trocheck traces back to the blue-collar area where they grew up.

Miller and Mika Zibanejad have formed an unlikely chemistry duo.

Miller racked up 18 points ( seven goals and 11 assists) through his first 17 games back.

Zibanejad has revived his season with 20 ( six goals and 14 assists) in that same span.

Miller and his wife, Natalie , along with their three children, have found a place of their own.