Long-time LA Kings Broadcaster Bob Miller Taking Leave of Absence For Health Reasons

Bob Miller has been the play-by-play announcer for the Los Angeles Kings since 1973, and has rarely missed a game. Some NHL fans consider the Hockey Hall of Famer a national treasure, he even has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and the press box at Staples Center is named in his honor. Sadly, Miller won’t be in the broadcast booth during Kings games for a while, as it was announced on Wednesday that he would take a leave of absence for health reasons.

The 77-year-old needs to have heart bypass surgery, the date for which has not yet been set. There is no timetable for his return to the booth. Miller commented on the situation in a press release:

"“It is unfortunate that I have to miss Kings telecasts but I have to get this taken care of as soon as possible. I know the telecasts will be in good hands and I hope to return to the TV booth as soon as my health allows.”"

Obviously we wish Miller a speedy recovery, but hockey won’t be the same while he’s on the shelf. The man is an icon in Southern California and when the Kings went on their Stanley Cup run in 2012, many fans brought signs that said “Win it for Bob!” After 39 years with the franchise, Miller finally got to call a cup win that year and you can hear the pure joy in his voice.

This year the Kings are off to their best start in franchise history, with a 30-15-3 record and they hold seven-point lead in the Pacific Division. Here’s hoping Miller is back for the team’s postseason run.