J.T. Miller’s hot streak continued in Thursday’s 4-2 win over the Wild at the Garden, as his second-period goal tied the game and gave him eight goals in his last eight games.
“It feels nice, but honestly right now I am really just so happy with the game we played there,’’ Miller said.
In that case, his coach and teammates were left to praise the occasionally inconsistent player.
“Miller is a young man that’s definitely growing and understanding more every day what it is to be a pro,” coach Alain Vigneault said. “He’s working hard to become the best player he can be.”
He’s also impressed Henrik Lundqvist during the recent run, which includes four goals in three games.
“J.T. has been awesome the last few weeks,” the goalie said. “He plays hard. It’s not just scoring. It’s his confidence.”
And that’s something Lundqvist has been waiting to see.
“Since that first practice you could see his strength and good hands,” Lundqvist said. “He has everything to become a great hockey player and he’s getting there.”
Kevin Klein sat out Thursday, but the fractured right thumb that looked like a long-term injury to the defenseman Wednesday now may only keep him out a matter of days.
The defenseman was able to take part in the morning skate Thursday and handle the puck.
Jayson Megna, recalled from AHL Hartford on Wednesday, was put on the power play’s second unit and took Tanner Glass’ spot on the fourth line against Minnesota.
“I just felt we’re playing against a team that’s got a lot of speed,” Vigneault said of the change. “And Megna gives us better speed and skill. He’s a better fit.”
The Rangers still were unable to take advantage of the man-advantage in the win, failing to convert in three opportunities.
Rick Nash missed his fourth straight game and didn’t skate as he continues to deal with a left leg bone bruise.
“It was planned,” Vigneault said of Nash, who had skated the previous two days. “[Thursday] was just off- ice stuff. Hopefully [Friday] he’ll be close to skating with the team.”
Nash last played Jan. 22.
Vigneault watched the morning skate from the stands, where he chatted with GM Jeff Gorton and team president Glen Sather. Vigneault insisted his confab with the suits wasn’t a big deal.
“It just happened that way,” Vigneault said. “They were up in the stands. They’re my bosses. I figured I’d sit with them. That’s all it was.”