Miller speaks and he’s playing for the Vancouver Canucks tonight
The Vancouver Canucks are getting one of the league’s best players back after a lengthy absence.
J.T. Miller has returned after stepping away from the team on November 19 for personal reasons. The 31-year-old spoke to the media for the first time since then today and gave insight into how he’s feeling.
He began his press conference with a short speech, explaining that he’s back in the lineup but wishes not to discuss the reason for his time away.
“I’m here with the team and I am ready to look forward to what’s going to happen in the future, not necessarily what happened in the past,” Miller said.
While he didn’t get into the specifics of his decision, he did give some information on how difficult the period was for him.
“It sucks no matter what it’s for. This is a family away from family here, you miss the guys. I’m just excited to be around them and get back and compete.”
The Canucks face a tough challenge tonight as the defending Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers visit town. Miller’s presence is huge as he solidifies their forward group.
“I’m excited to play, I want to play, and obviously fun game to play against the defending champions. Just happy to be around the guys and looking forward to tonight.”
The veteran explained that he got to watch a few Canucks games during his break. He’s also been working out and taking care of himself during the past few weeks, although he still expects to need some time to get up to full speed.
“Obviously rust is expected, I think this weekend is four weeks, just try to keep it easy on myself, play my game… try to keep it simple, play physical, things that I can control.”
The fanbase’s support for Miller is as strong as ever. The Rogers Arena crowd chanted Miller’s name in nearly every home game since he left the team, and the chant was even heard at a WWE event that took place in Vancouver.
“I’m pretty out of the loop on it but whatever it was, I appreciate it.”
Head coach Rick Tocchet confirmed that Aatu Räty will come out of the lineup to make room for Miller. The All-Star centre is expected to skate on a line with sniper Brock Boeser and Nils Höglander.
“I’m excited, he’s excited, the players are excited,” Tocchet said. “He’s one of the best players in the league, so when you get a guy back in the lineup like that, it means a lot.”
Miller had recorded 16 points in 17 games before his absence. While the coach is happy to have him back, he conceded that Miller’s minutes will likely need to be managed at the start of his return.
“I don’t think I can play him heavy minutes, I don’t think it’s fair to him. I have to [load manage], I have to be calculated the way I play him tonight.”
This is the second time these two teams have met this season. The Canucks won the first one in overtime 3-2.