JT Miller believes the Storm is behind the Vancouver Canucks, who will see better days this season.
The 30-year-old center, who will play the first year of a seven-year, $56 million contract, believes his team is on the right track.
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In an interview with Sportsnet, he called the first half of last season, which led to the departure of head coach Bruce Boudreau, a “shit show” (in French, “shit show”). According to Miller, his successor Rick Tocchet then had a positive influence.
“Everything changed when Rick and his team got here,” he said. The last 30 games last year felt good. The environment, which was toxic, has changed. The tumult passed and it was pleasant to return to the arena.”
“Everyone is more mature,” he continued. We’ve been through hell the last two years. Finally we can breathe deeply and play hockey. It’s hard to predict how next season will go, but I feel like we’re a better team. Things are changing for the better. You can feel it in the room.”
The tools are there
The Canucks have missed the playoffs seven straight seasons. Still, Miller is optimistic.
“If we prepare and do what we are supposed to do, the results will speak for themselves,” he said. We have the talent, a good goalkeeper [Thatcher Demko] and depth. We are experiencing a very competitive camp this year. There are a lot of positives.”
Furthermore, the man who amassed 299 points in 283 games in Vancouver is willing to sacrifice his point share to improve his team’s defense.
“If I play against the other team’s top team every night and do my job, the points should come less often,” Miller said. Last year with [Brock] Boeser and Phil [Di Giuseppe] We didn’t give much to the opposition’s front lines and we were proud of it.”