Maybe leash was the wrong word. I don't expect Quinn to not let him try and play his full game so much as I suspect Quinn will shorten the bench with him not getting much ice time in close games. Obviously there is going to be a lot more leeway in a blowout win.
It's very unclear what the AHL season will look like. And how good it will be as a developmental league this year. So much uncertainty. Yes, I know there are plans for there to be an AHL season. But that league may be hard to sustain given the financial limitations. That said, if this were a regular season I would have preferred Miller start down in the AHL. I do think he's showing that the speed of the game is something he can handle. What he needs to develop is his decision making and positioning without the puck. Without being in the know, its just too hard to judge at this moment if developing in the NHL under Martin is just what he needs or if it's going to the AHL and learning under Murphy. For at least the next month this is a moot point. But I think they will need to monitor this and be honest with K'Andre about where he's at.
I think, for now, the best way to use him is sorta the way he was used last night. Shelter his minutes and his matchups in close games. Give him more ice time in lower stakes situations. He looked stronger last night, not only because he's naturally getting more comfortable, but because Quinn and Martin put him in a situation to succeed.
Also -- I thought Smith was a revelation on the 3rd pairing with him. Asking Smith to be responsible one on the bottom pair is something he seems more than capable of. He is more than capable in easier match up situations. Especially if he's not being asked to lead the breakout or rush.
