BOSTON (AP) – An independent review of the Boston Bruins’ player vetting process found no misconduct by team employees, but it did identify flaws in the system that led to the signing of Mitchell Miller, who was convicted of assault in 2016 for bullying a black classmate. with developmental disabilities in high school.
The team said Thursday it will overhaul the process that broke down when it gave Miller an entry-level contract last month, even though the Arizona Coyotes previously waived his rights after drafting him in 2020.
Bruins president Cam Neely said afterward that the team “dropped the ball” and that Boston withdrew its offer after harsh criticism from the hockey community, including from the Bruins’ own locker room. NHL commissioner Gary Bettman said the 20-year-old defenseman will not be eligible to play in the league without major changes.
The Bruins commissioned an independent review by a law firm led by former U.S. Attorney Loretta Lynch. He reviewed thousands of documents and communications before concluding Thursday, the team said.
“There were gaps in the club’s vetting procedures, which created challenges when faced, as here, with a recruit with significant red flags,” the team said in a statement. “Bruins management has taken and will continue to take steps to ensure that organizational values and standards are maintained going forward.”
Among the recommendations: “establish clear written policies for reviewing off-ice behavior, including identifying red flags that require detailed review and documented resolution.” The review will be monitored and any red flags that are discovered will be documented and shared with all those involved in the process.
“The steps we are announcing today underscore our organization’s commitment to our values, including our vetting process for prospective players,” said Bruins CEO Charlie Jacobs. “These improvements, which the team will begin implementing immediately, will help ensure we meet the high standards our associates, fans and community expect from this great organization.”
Lynch said the team was “fully cooperative.”
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