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Back in Buffalo for season to start, Sabres G Miller calls NHL lockout as 'stupid'

Associated Press
Published | Updated

Buffalo Sabres goalie Ryan Miller looks on during an informal NHL hockey workout in Amherst, N.Y., Friday, Jan. 11, 2013. (AP Photo/David Duprey) (The Associated Press)

Buffalo Sabres goalie Ryan Miller skates onto the ice for an informal NHL hockey workout in Amherst, N.Y., Friday, Jan. 11, 2013. (AP Photo/David Duprey) (The Associated Press)

Sabres goalie Ryan Miller is back in Buffalo to rejoin his teammates, eagerly awaiting the start of the regular season, and still upset over the four-month NHL lockout.

Miller, who played a role in labor talks, called the dispute "stupid" and "a useless waste of time." He blamed owners, and singled out NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman, for prolonging the lockout into January.

Miller spoke after completing his first on-ice session with Sabres players at a suburban arena Friday. They're preparing for training camp to open Sunday, and the season to begin a week later.

A seven-year veteran, Miller is the face of the franchise. His arrival was welcomed by teammates and about 300 fans — the largest turnout this week — who lined the boards to watch the open practice.