OSU’s Kesler Selected 23rd in 2003 NHL Entry Draft – Ohio State Buckeyes
6/21/2003 12:00:00 AM | Men's Ice Hockey
June 21, 2003
COLUMBUS, Ohio – Ohio State forward Ryan Kesler (Livonia, Mich./U.S. National Team Development Program) was drafted in the first round of the 2003 NHL Entry Draft by the Vancouver Canucks Saturday at the Gaylord Entertainment Center in Nashville, Tenn. Kesler was the 23rd overall selection in the draft.
Kesler joins Buckeye teammate R.J. Umberger as a member of the Canucks’ organization. Umberger was drafted 16th overall in the first round by Vancouver in 2001.
Kesler, a 2003 CCHA All-Rookie Team honorable mention selection and the Buckeyes’ Most Valuable Freshman, ended his freshman season fourth in scoring for the Buckeyes with 31 points. He was second on the squad with 11 goals and added 20 assists. Kesler competed for the U.S. in the prestigious World Junior Championships, earning player of the game accolades against both Czech and Finland. He was the Central Collegiate Hockey Association’s nominee for national rookie of the month in December and was a three-time league rookie of the week recipient.
The Buckeyes have had at least one player drafted in each of the last three seasons, including three in the first round. In all, 26 Ohio State players have been drafted by an NHL team. Kesler was the highest drafted current CCHA player.
For a list of all CCHA players and recruits drafted in the 2003 NHL Entry Draft please visit CCHA.com.
