Mitchell Miller (4.25 Star Amateur Rating, NHL Grade — C+) Defense
World Junior A Challenge Update: Miller had a great tournament for the Americans. His 6 points were tied with fellow countryman Koster for 1st among defensemen, and tied for 5th overall in the tournament. His 2 goals paced D-men as well, tied with Poizl of the Czech team. Miller skates well–carrying for zone entries, and he defended the rush well with his stick and skating ability. He led defensive scoring in the tournament thanks to his hands and ability to move the puck. He had a highlight reel goal against the Czech republic on a breakaway coming out of the penalty box, where he waved his stick above the puck before sliding it five-hole. His point play on the power play was impressive, where he was deceptive with head fakes and moves. The North Dakota commit was an important player for the Bronze Medal winning American Team. Grade: A
Mitchell is a top pairing defenseman in the USHL and will be heavily counted on once he gets to North Dakota. He plays with his head up and looks to make tape to tape passes in transition. In the defensive zone he maintains net side positioning, has a very quick stick and has the strength to eliminate larger forwards on the cycle. There is a lot to like about Mitchell. Our big concern is his explosiveness. Obviously he will get faster and stronger over the next 4 years, but is he a kid who matured early and this is what you’re getting? Or is he an athletic kid who will take to training and turn into a beast? At 5’11 194 he is a thick 17 year old and has the frame to play in the NHL now, but he needs to continue getting quicker and more explosive. That is up to his training and his genetics. We feel Mitchell has the head to play at a very high level and the body type to be a pro, but we need to see him get more explosive before we can say he can have a long career as an NHL Defenseman.
Photo Credit: Toledo Blade / Mark Monroe mmonroe@theblade.com