JT Miller Takes Leave of Absence from Canucks, Out Indefinitely

Vancouver Canucks forward JT Miller has announced he is taking a personal leave of absence from the team, effective immediately, and is out indefinitely.

The news comes after the All-Star forward was benched in the third period of the Canucks' most recent game against the Nashville Predators, sparking speculation about his status with the team.

Canucks Forward J.T. Miller to take indefinite leave for personal reasons. pic.twitter.com/RzjZT3bKCK
— Vancouver Canucks (@Canucks) November 19, 2024

“Right now, our sole focus is making sure that J.T. knows the entire organization is here to support him,” Canucks general manager Patrik Allvin said in a statement. “Out of respect to J.T., we will have no further comment at this time.”

Miller, a key player for the Canucks since 2019, has six goals and 16 points in 17 games this season, but head coach Rick Tocchet wasn't pleased with something about his effort in Sunday's game, and sat him for most of the third period. The team says that Miller's sudden leave of absence is rooted in personal matters.

Canucks insider Rick Dhaliwal tells us more:

Patrick Johnston of the Province : Been told that J.T. Miller's personal leave is not related to substance or alcohol abuse or anything at all like that. It's about giving the player a chance to re-set himself mentally.
— Rick Dhaliwal (@DhaliwalSports) November 19, 2024

Hearing JT Miller leave is about a player who needs a re-set.

Needs time and space.
— Rick Dhaliwal (@DhaliwalSports) November 19, 2024

He's heard that Miller's leave is nothing to do with any type of substance abuse, but "about a player who needs a re-set. Needs time and space."

Miller’s absence creates a significant void in Vancouver's forward group, especially considering the fact that Miller's mate on the top line, Brock Boeser, is also out, due to injury.

The Canucks are 9-5-3 this season, tied for 3rd in the Pacific Division. But they'll have to soldier on now without two of their top players, in addition to the ongoing absence of No. 1 goalie Thatcher Demko.