Bruins' Kevan Miller ruled out for Game 5 vs. Capitals

Boston Bruins defenseman Kevan Miller (86) attempts a shot on goal in front of Pittsburgh Penguins center Evgeni Malkin (71). Brian Fluharty-USA TODAY Sports

Bruins defenseman Kevan Miller ruled out for Game 5 vs. Capitals after taking high hit

By Erin Walsh | Last updated 5/22/21

Boston Bruins defenseman Kevan Miller has been ruled out for Sunday's Game 5 against the Washington Capitals after spending Friday night in the hospital, head coach Bruce Cassidy said Saturday, according to Matt Porter of The Boston Globe.

Either Jarred Tinordi or Urho Vaakanainen will play in Miller's place.

Cassidy: Miller feeling better. At home after night at hospital. Out for Game 5. Tinordi or Vaakanainen would go in.
— Matt Porter (@mattyports) May 22, 2021

Miller was hit high by Capitals defenseman Dmitry Orlov while carrying the puck into the offensive zone in the second period of Game 4 on Friday night.

Dmitry Orlov with a dangerous hit on Kevan Miller. pic.twitter.com/UFxCQi2KrW
— Conor Ryan (@ConorRyan_93) May 21, 2021

Orlov was initially handed a five-minute major, but the penalty was reduced to four minutes for roughing upon further review. According to Steve Conroy of the Boston Herald, Orlov will not have a hearing for the hit.

As of now, no hearing for Orlov. Pretty much expected that after penalty was downgraded
— steve conroy (@conroyherald) May 22, 2021

The Miller-less Bruins defeated the Capitals 4-1 to take a 3-1 series lead. David Pastrnak said after the game that the team wanted to win for Miller because he's a player "who'd step up for every guy in the room."

Boston will have the opportunity to close out the series in Game 5 on Sunday in Washington.

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