The NHL is welcoming two more Spartans to the professional ranks. But not before they suit up in green and white, and skate out onto Spartan country ice.
Returning sophomore defenseman Corey Potter and freshman Drew Miller were both drafted in the 2003 NHL Entry Draft, held in Nashville, Tenn., during the summer.
Potter, a native of Mason, was selected 122nd overall by the New York Rangers in the fourth round. Miller - another in the long line of Miller family members to skate for the Spartans - was selected 186th overall in the sixth round by the Anaheim Mighty Ducks.
Being drafted by an NHL team does not eliminate an amateur player's eligibility. Once a player is drafted, their rights as a professional are held by that professional team for the duration of their amateur career.
Head coach Rick Comley says having two players drafted off the same team is a promising sign for Spartan hockey to be a powerhouse this season.
"We always like to get players drafted," Comley said. "You hope that that translates to success."
Being drafted by the Ducks was pretty exciting, Miller said.
"They're an up-and-coming team," he said. "It's good odds for me."
Drew Miller, brother of former MSU goalie Ryan Miller, started last season in the North American Hockey League with the Capital Centre Pride. He had nine goals and 18 points in 14 games before he was traded to River City, Iowa. There he finished with 14 goals and 25 points in 49 games, and had 14 points in 11 playoff games.
Dean Miller, Drew's father, said his son was born a Spartan.
He said the family watched the draft all day, and when they finally saw Drew's name come across the screen, the room erupted with hoots and hollers.
"It's a thrill to have him recognized," Dean Miller said. "He's just trying to keep it all in perspective. Being a drafted hockey player playing in college means all of your training is going to be at MSU."
Comley says Drew Miller has potential to immediately start on the ice.
"I think he can play right away," Comley said. "He's a very smart player, he just gradually needs to get bigger."
Drew Miller said he has been training all summer.
"You always train to get better," Drew Miller said. "Right now I'm concentrating on training for State and playing for State."
Drew Miller said he plans on being at MSU for as long as it takes.
"I'm planning on four years," Drew Miller said. "If I do leave after three, it'd be awesome because I'd be having a good career. I'm looking forward to the season. It's been my lifelong dream to play for MSU."
Following the footsteps of his older brother, 2001 Hobey Baker award-winner Ryan Miller, isn't going to be easy, Drew Miller said.
"There's going to be big shoes to fill," Drew Miller said. "It's a good thing he was a goalie and I'm a forward. I won't have to beat shut-out records."
Drew Miller also said with that famous surname comes opportunity - and scrutiny.
"I want to try to make a name for myself," Drew Miller said. "But not the Miller name."
