I was someone who thought he would be better served to start in the AHL (had that been an option.) So far looks like I was wrong. Kid was a beast last night and has gotten better every game.
I do think we need to pump the brakes a bit though. Sky is the limit but going to be a lot of highs and lows throughout this season as he continues to grow and tries to incorporate a more aggressive style.
Miller will certainly have some lows like any rookie should, but I think what has impressed me the most is his calmness and confidence.
I believe that is a direct result of him being prepared. He’s a smart kid and he took his training seriously. He said spent a TON of time watching video and learning the finer aspects of the defensive game and positioning so he could react instinctually on the ice and not have to think.
Hearing how he described the NHL game as almost easier in some ways because of the structure and level of players around him speaks volumes.
The USA hockey program has had all of its players use
Intelligym which is a computer game training tool to help awareness and decision making on the ice. I’m sure Fox, Lindgren and other have used it too.
I also know that Miller wears a
Whoop strap which measures daily strain, recovery and sleep metrics based off of your heart rhythms. Think of it as a Fitbit on steroids. I own one as well and it really helps athletes understand what is going on under the hood and if you are sufficiently recovering.
Point being, this is (recent) 21 year old kid who is already succeeding in preparing himself as pro, and that is only going to accelerate his growth.
