J.T. Miller, C – Connecticut Whale (AHL)
As one of only three returning players from Team USA’s disastrous 2012 world juniors, Miller had more than enough ammunition to get him pumped for Ufa this year. And with part of a campaign playing against men in the American League behind him, the young power forward came correct with nine points in seven games, tying him for the team lead with Jacob Trouba and Johnny Gaudreau en route to a gold medal.
“It was nice getting to play guys my own age for a bit and just get some confidence back,†Miller said.
Because he was drafted out of the U.S. National Team Development Program, Miller was allowed to hit the AHL as a teenager, something he could not have done if he had started his junior career in Plymouth, where he played last season in the Ontario League. Life in the ‘A’ has been tough and satisfying.
“It took me awhile to adjust there, plus I went from wing to center, but it was one of the best leagues in the world to play in when the lockout was on,†he said. “It’s really good competition, I love it.â€
Miller has tallied 16 points through 32 games and at times has gone on nice offensive runs for several games. Not bad for one of the youngest players in the league. With the end of the NHL lockout clawing back some of the talent that normally wouldn’t have been in the AHL, the Ohio native will be one of the better prospects to watch down there for the rest of the season. Drafted 15th overall by the New York Rangers in 2011.