I think one of the biggest problems with Miller is that he gets played way too much. Yes, I know that starting goalies are supposed to start all the time and play pretty much every game with a few games off. However, every year this dude carries his defense because they are out of position and are trying not to get beat which ends up with Miller facing odd-man rushes very often. Granted, Miller lets in soft goals too often, but I can let those go sometimes because it happens. But in my opinion I think that most of the blame for Miller's play recently has been our defense. So many times this past season I'd be screaming at the television for the defense to stay in front of the net or to cover their sniper in the slot. Countless times during the season our defense would pinch on the puck carrier at their blue line and get burnt because one, the other defenseman was not providing backside support and second, our wingers back-check like it's a suggestion.

Another point to Ryan Miller playing too much, he's weighed in on ESPN at 175, I've heard reports that he loses about 10 to 20 pounds during the season, you'd think that would take a toll on him? I sure do. I think the best thing for Miller would be a backup that he and the Sabres could rely on to win games.  In doing this, there would be much less pressure strapped to the back of Miller and would allow him to take healthy days off, instead of riding him until he gets hurt like most years.  

Overall, I think after the All-Star break the Sabres were the best team in hockey when they forechecked like we saw in many of the second half games, we smothered their defenseman in their zone and caused many turnovers. I think this and steady consistent defense is our key to being successful, I've never seen a Sabres team forecheck with the tenacity we had at the end of the season, but at some points that motivation and forechecking drive was lost. I think the Sabres need to be more physical and aggressive (body checking) next season