Hard Working Miller Keeps Proving He’s Here To Stay
FollowNothing has come easy for Drew Miller. The 6-foot-2, 170 pound forward helped the Red Wings earn a playoff spot last season after being picked up off of waivers from the Tampa Bay Lightning in November. Detroit claimed the 26 year-old forward to add immediate depth to a roster riddled with injuries. They eventually intended to send him down to Grand Rapids of the AHL.
Miller’s strong play coupled with a continuing injury problems kept the forward in Detroit for the remainder of the season. After becoming a restricted free agent over the summer, Miller would eventually sign a one year, two way deal with the Red Wings knowing he would have to compete for an NHL roster spot again this season.
The former Michigan State Spartan eventually won a roster spot beating out Mattias Ritola, among others, due to his sound defensive game and his ability to chip in timely goals. Miller, who has become a staple on the Red Wings fourth line, has also seen his fair share of time on the penalty kill this season.
While last night’s game winning goal against the New York Rangers was just his fourth of the season, Miller’s contributions are not necessarily measured in offensive totals. Miller, who was the 6th round selection in the 2003 NHL entry draft by the Anaheim Ducks, is a grinding forward who isn’t afraid to block shots or play through traffic.
The gritty forward has filled in admirably as needed and taking on additional responsibility in the wake of the injury problems this season. With the playoffs nearing and the Red Wings getting healthier, his strong play has given Coach Babcock something to think about.