The Otago first five aggravated an ankle complaint in a club game two weeks ago.
The Taieri pivot had to be assisted from the field and that sight gave spawn to some serious concern among the faithful.
The 20-year-old shapes as a key cog in the Otago NPC team.
With Josh Ioane not returning this season, Millar will get an extended run in the No 10 jersey.
It is a grand opportunity to establish himself in the role and push for expanded opportunities with Highlanders in what will be a rebuilding year for the club next year.
Millar started one game for the Highlanders against the Hurricanes and made three appearances off the bench this season.
His performances were surprisingly polished given how new he is to rugby at the elite level.
His future looks very promising, which is why the sight of him wearing a moon boot caused a few concerns.
But Otago Rugby Football Union chief executive Richard Kinley was able to ease concerns.
"It is an aggravation of his previous high ankle strain," Kinley said.
"But talking to the physio and the trainers, his plan will have him back, all things going well, for some limited minutes in the preseason game against Southland.
Kinley said injuries were inevitable, but he expressed his relief the injury was not worse.
That said, there is plenty of cover.
Highlanders utility back Sam Gilbert is probably the next cab off the rank.
Gilbert is best suited to fullback, but his towering punt and physical presence make him a decent option at first five.
Dunedin first five Ajay Faleafaga has been slotting in at second five for the New Zealand under-20 side.
But he is another solid option for Otago and will need playing opportunities at NPC level.
Green Island’s Finn Hurley has shone at club rugby in recent weeks and has the kind of X-factor you cannot coach.
He has been starting at fullback for the Grizzlies, but he played schoolboy rugby at first five and it will be interesting to see what he is capable of at NPC level.
The Otago squad is expected to be announced on Friday.
The preseason game against Southland is at Hancock Park on July 28.
The fixture is being staged during the Fifa Football World Cup exclusion period, which is why it is being played at the home of the Pirates rugby club and the Otago Softball Association.
Fifa has exclusive use of Forsyth Barr Stadium and the University Oval.
