Ryan Miller is about to enter unrestricted free agency for the first time in his career, and after several disappointing Stanley Cup playoff runs, playing for a championship contender will be a key factor in his decision-making process when the market opens in July.
That was the message his agent relayed during an interview with a Vancouver radio station on Wednesday.
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Miller was acquired by the St. Louis Blues at this year’s trade deadline as part of a multi-player deal. The trade was unsuccessful for the Blues as they were eliminated by the rival Chicago Blackhawks in a six-game first-round series despite having a 2-0 lead. Miller’s less-than-stellar performance in the final four games of that series (13 goals against, .888 save percentage) was a primary reason for St. Louis’ failure, and it seems that the Blues are content with a goalie tandem of veteran Brian Elliott and 23-year-old Jake Allen going into next season.
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Miller, 33, is the best goalie eligible for unrestricted free agency this summer. Despite his lack of postseason success, he’s still a quality player capable of leading a team to the playoffs and potentially winning a round or two. Before the 2013-14 season, Miller had won 30-plus games in seven consecutive non-lockout seasons, and also won the 2010 Vezina Trophy.
There are several teams that might look to acquire a veteran goaltender of Miller’s caliber this offseason. That list may include the Pittsburgh Penguins, Minnesota Wild and Vancouver Canucks.
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