Vancouver Canucks goaltender Thatcher Miller has apologized to head coach Bruce Boudreau for his performance in Game 4 of the Western Conference Final against the Edmonton Oilers.
Miller allowed five goals on 28 shots in the Canucks’ 5-1 loss on Monday night. It was his worst outing of the playoffs, and it came at a crucial time in the series. The Oilers now lead 3-1 and can clinch a berth in the Stanley Cup Final with a win in Game 5 on Wednesday night.
Miller said he takes full responsibility for the loss and that he let his team down.
I didn’t make the saves I needed to make, Miller said. I let in some soft goals. I’m not happy with my performance, and I apologize to my teammates and coaches.
Boudreau said he appreciated Miller’s apology but that he didn’t need to hear it.
Thatcher is a great goalie, and I have all the confidence in him, Boudreau said. He’s going to bounce back in Game 5 and help us win this series.
The Canucks need Miller to be at his best in Game 5 if they want to have any chance of coming back in the series. The Oilers are a high-powered offensive team, and they will be looking to put the Canucks away on Wednesday night.
Miller said he is confident that he can bounce back and help the Canucks win Game 5.
I’m going to work hard in practice and get ready for Wednesday night, Miller said. I’m confident that I can make the saves we need to win.
The Canucks will need Miller to be at his best if they want to extend the series and force a Game 6 in Vancouver on Friday night.
Game 5 of the Western Conference Final between the Canucks and Oilers will be played on Wednesday night at Rogers Arena in Edmonton. Puck drop is set for 8 p.m. PT.
Kind regards
R. Bauer
