Vegas Golden Knights First Half Report Cards: Defensemen
![LAS VEGAS, NV - DECEMBER 23: Nate Schmidt #88 of the Vegas Golden Knights warms up prior to the game against the Washington Capitals at T-Mobile Arena on December 23, 2017 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by David Becker/NHLI via Getty Images) LAS VEGAS, NV - DECEMBER 23: Nate Schmidt #88 of the Vegas Golden Knights warms up prior to the game against the Washington Capitals at T-Mobile Arena on December 23, 2017 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by David Becker/NHLI via Getty Images)](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/6a309a5588d9e061984c24f6bd5c344cd6586b46923bde597b61dbac7a333f3c.jpg)
Colin Miller
The Golden Knights precisely knew what they were receiving when they selected Colin Miller in the expansion draft from the Boston Bruins. Miller wasn’t utilized much in Boston and eventually was the odd man out. But it’s the Bruins loss and the Knights gain.
Miller’s slapshot accuracy drastically improved over the course of this season, and he’s been much better when to choose his spots to showcase his cannon of a shot. He’s also a fantastic skater and loves to move the puck up the ice quickly and efficiently. His offensive ability has shown as he currently leads the team in points among defensemen.
He’s totaled five goals, 16 assists and 21 points in 41 games played. And whats most impressive is he’s doing his part on the power play and penalty kill. The 25-year has elevated his play in his defensive end this year and has worked extensively with Luca Sbisa.
Miller’s excellent start to the year should only continue in the second half. He’s creating scoring opportunities and playing good defense all around. All he has to do now is cut down on penalties, and he can be a reliable number four defenseman.
Grade: B+