Canucks’ J.T. Miller to return to lineup against Panthers on Thursday
Vancouver Canucks’ forward J.T. Miller told reporters Thursday he will be playing in the team’s Thursday night matchup against the Florida Panthers.
VIDEO: JT Miller speaks ahead of return to Canucks’ lineup vs. Panthershttps://t.co/WwgNwlIut1
— CanucksArmy (@CanucksArmy) December 12, 2024
Miller said he would not discuss the reason for his absence but he appreciates the support from fans throughout the process.
JT Miller is playing tonight. Began with a statement saying he wouldn’t discuss the reasons for his absence. Said he’s been out of the loop with fan reaction but appreciates the support. #Canucks
— Farhan Lalji (@FarhanLaljiTSN) December 12, 2024
On Nov. 19, the club announced Miller was taking an indefinite leave of absence from the Canucks for “personal reasons.”
Canucks Forward J.T. Miller to take indefinite leave for personal reasons. pic.twitter.com/RzjZT3bKCK
— Vancouver Canucks (@Canucks) November 19, 2024
“Right now, our sole focus is making sure that J.T. knows the entire organization is here to support him,” General Manager Patrik Allvin said. “Out of respect to J.T., we will have no further comment at this time.”
Through 17 games this season, the 31-year-old Miller has six goals and 10 assists for 16 points.
The 2023-24 season was a career year for the East Palestine, Ohio, native, scoring 37 goals and recording 66 assists for 103 points. It was also the third-consecutive season Miller hit the 30-goal mark, and the second time in his career he recorded more than 90 points.
Through 13 NHL seasons, Miller has 244 goals and 411 assists for 655 points in 816 regular-season games with the Canucks, Tampa Bay Lightning and New York Rangers.
Miller has also appeared in 91 career Stanley Cup Playoff games, scoring 12 goals and adding 44 assists for 56 points.
The Canucks are 14-8-5 with 33 points, fourth in the Pacific Division and currently holding onto the second Wild Card spot in the Western Conference.