Abdelkader, Kesler named to Team USA roster for World Cup

kesler abdelkader

By @MichaelCaples –

Team USA’s initial roster for the upcoming World Cup of Hockey was announced today, and two Michigan natives cracked the list.

Red Wings forward Justin Abdelkader and Anaheim Ducks forward Ryan Kesler were two of the first 16 players added to Team USA’s roster.

More players will be named before the tournament begins in September.

Abdelkader, a Muskegon native, has 15 goals and 18 assists for 33 points in 63 games this season. The USHL and Michigan State alum served as captain of Team USA at the World Championships in 2014.

Kesler, a Livonia native, has recorded 13 goals and 20 assists in 61 games. The NTDP and Ohio State product has played for the U.S. in the last two Winter Olympics.

University of Michigan alum Max Pacioretty was named to Team USA’s roster, as well. Pacioretty, who played for the Wolverines in 2007-08, has 23 goals and 22 assists in 63 games.