Could Retirement be in the Cards for Kevan Miller?

It pains me to write this.

As a self-proclaimed Kevan Miller superfan, as well as someone who has likely overrated his productivity with the Bruins over the last six years, being the one to question the future of his career isn't an easy conversation to have. That being said, based on the extent of his injuries as well as his progress since the injury took place, calling an end to his career may be a realistic proposition for the 32-year-old defenseman.

Miller battled for four years in the American Hockey League with the Bruins affiliate, the Providence Bruins, before getting his opportunity in Boston in 2014. His physicality and "don't poke the bear" mentality immediately won over management and the fan base. And the NHL is where he would remain over the last six seasons. His hard-nose style hasn't always treated him well, however, as Miller has struggled the last few years with reoccurring injuries. What injuries? I'll allow him to expand on that.

In a Zoom conference call with Bruins' General Manager, Don Sweeney, an update on Miller's progression was provided, and it doesn't sound promising. He has suffered minor setbacks, and the new plan is to get him 100% healthy for the start of next season. He is officially done for the remainder of this year.

Knowing Miller's long list of injuries, as well as the difficulty in recovering from his current knee injury, the "if he wants to come back" statement by Don Sweeney is very telling to me. At this point, I don't think it would surprise the Bruins management if Miller decided to walk away. With a wife, a child, and a clothing line partnered with Brad Marchand, Miller does have a life outside of hockey.

That being said, he does have a warrior mentality. Therefore returning to the Bruins next season with a new contract extension is definitely not out of the realm of possibilities.

It his, however, a realistic notion to suggest retirement may be a strong consideration for Miller.