Former Hobey Baker winner and NHL All-Star Ryan Miller leads the CCHA class as one of three goalies in camp. The Buffalo Sabres netminder was a 5th Round Draft pick in the 1999 NHL Draft which he placed on hold to pursue his education at Michigan State University. As a Spartan, Miller matured into the top level player exemplified today. Miller set the NCAA record while playing for the Spartans in the CCHA for most career shutouts. He is a native of East Lansing, Michigan.
Jack Johnson highlights the defensive corps for the United States as he brings his intense physical game to the international field. The 2007 CCHA Offensive Defenseman of the year has grown into a solid contributor on both ends of the ice. The former Wolverine has played internationally in the past as a member of the 2006 IIHF United States World Juniors team. Johnson grew up in Indianapolis, Indiana.
The Wolverines will not feature one defenseman in the Olympics, but two. Mike Komisarek is not an offensive minded player, but contributes immensely with strong physical play and sound defensive tactics. Komisarek’s ability to grind out tough physical games is his trademark and will bring confidence to his teammates via his accountability. The son of a Polish immigrant, Komisarek was born in West Islip, New York.
The Florida Panthers David Booth began life in Detroit, Michigan later becoming a Michigan State Spartan. Known for his outlandish behavior, Booth will bring a lot of excitement to a team not short on talent or persona. Booth played at Michigan State from 2003 to 2006.
The Alternate Captain for the Vancouver Canucks, and a former Ohio State Buckeye; Ryan Kesler will no doubt be a leader in the locker room for this American team. The Selke Trophy nominee (Best Defensive Forward) for 2009 has been a career Canuck known for his level headed play and his determination. Kesler enjoyed a fine 2008-09 season scoring a career high 59 points.
The XXI Winter Olympic Games are slated to begin February 12 and will continue through February 28, 2010 in Vancouver, British Columbia.
You may contact the author at: john.strathman@prohockeynews.com
