Ryan Miller has announced his retirement after an outstanding career in every way. The debate now turns to the question...Is he a hall of famer?
The opinions out there are mixed, but in my opinion they really shouldn't be.
When I look to see if a player is hall worthy I look at four categories.
#1. Career Stats.
Miller has 390 wins. That is 14th on the All-Time list (one more than Hasek) but Tops among all American Born Goalies.
#2. Was he ever the BEST in the NHL at his time?
The answer is again, I feel, yes. In the early 2000's Miller was king. Leading to his winning the Vezina in 2009-2010...The same year he was spectacular for the Team USA in the Vancouver Olympics.
#3. This is the HOCKEY Hall of Fame. Not only the NHL.
Miller was not only a top NHL'er, but he had a very strong career playing for Team USA and was the best American goalie for close to a decade.
#4. Did he win the Cup/Gold Medal?
Miller came very close in Buffalo in 05, and an OT goal away in Vancouver, but he did NOT win a Stanley Cup in his career. That isn't his fault, but will be the argument those who vote against him will be using...
For me, 3 of 4 combined with all the good he did for the sport and the communities, especially in Buffalo, make Ryan Miller a Hall of Famer...for sure..
What do you think?
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— Michael Augello (@MikeInBuffalo) January 5, 2021