Bruins rescind offer to defenseman Mitchell Miller amid backlash
After facing criticism for inking free agent defenseman Mitchell Miller to an entry-level deal, the Boston Bruins announced on Sunday that they'd "parted ways" with the 20-year-old.
"Based on new information, we believe it is the best decision at this time to rescind the opportunity for Mitchell Miller to represent the Boston Bruins," president Cam Neely said. "We hope that he continues to work with professionals and programs to further his education and personal growth."
In 2016, Miller admitted in Ohio juvenile court that he bullied and abused classmate Isaiah Meyer-Crothers, an African American teenager with mental disabilities.
Originally a fourth-round selection by the Arizona Coyotes in 2020, the team renounced the pick after learning of Miller's conviction and his lack of an apology to the victim and his family. However, that didn't stop the Bruins from signing Miller two years later. The Bruins did not consult with the Meyer-Crother family before the signing but said in a statement on Friday that after spending "the past few weeks" with Miller, he had shown a willingness "to use his mistake as a teachable moment for others."
While the Bruins were called out by fans and media alike after signing Miller, Boston's own players also questioned the move. Bruins' captain Patrice Bergeron voiced his concerns, saying the move went against the culture the team has tried to build, while veteran Nick Foligno added that the signing was "hard to swallow" for the team.
NHL commissioner Gary Bettman also weighed in, stating that the Bruins never consulted him nor the league before signing Miller. Bettman added that Miller might never be ruled eligible to play in the NHL.
"We are sorry that this decision has overshadowed the incredible work the members of our organization do to support diversity and inclusion efforts," Neely said. "We will continue to stand against bullying and racism in all of its forms."
More must-reads: