Canucks' Miller set to return after 8-game absence

Ryan Miller is back from a rather mysterious injury.

The Vancouver Canucks goalie is likely to start Thursday against the Washington Capitals after missing the past eight games, head coach Willie Desjardins announced.

Miller exited a game Dec. 20 after reportedly cramping up during the shootout. The word from Desjardins was that Miller would be fine, but over three weeks later, he's finally ready to resume his duties.

"I'm very excited. I definitely didn't expect to be out this long," Miller said. "I want to get back in and battle."

Jacob Markstrom filled in admirably in Miller's absence, posting a record of 5-2-1 with a .931 save percentage.

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