Two of MSU's hockey players, sophomore defenseman A.J. Thelen and junior forward David Booth, have been listed in the Central Scouting Service's top 37 U.S. college players eligible for the National Hockey League's Entry Draft.
Thelen is ranked No. 1, while Booth placed No. 3 among players from the CCHA on the list of 231 North American skaters. Of the top 37, Thelen is ranked No. 11 and Booth No. 27. The rankings compiled are the final before the June 25-27 draft, which will take place in Raleigh, N.C.
Thelen adds this to the list of honors given to him during the 2003-2004 season. Included on that list are CCHA's Best Offensive Defenseman Award, 2004 CCHA All-Rookie team and All-CCHA First Team accolades.
Booth was a member of Team USA at the 2004 World Junior Championships and won a Gold Medal with the team. He earned a special mention as a 2003-04 CCHA All-Academic Honoree and is a frequent participant in local community service projects.
As a result of his activity, Booth was awarded State's Amo Bessone Award, which is awarded to the MSU hockey player who is active in the community.
Booth played in 29 games and had 18 points, while Thelen had 29 points in 41 games played.
