Burkholder was among the standouts at Capitals Development Camp, and he's ready to take that to Colorado College as he continues his journey toward the NHL.
ARLINGTON, V.A. -- Max Burkholder's teeth are clenched together, his eyes wide as he goes in for a big hit at Washington Capitals development camp. As a free agent invite, he came to MedStar Capitals Iceplex. with a chip on his shoulder and a need to stand out -- and there was no other approach he could take.
The 5-foot-9, 175-pound defenseman doesn't have the same luxury as several of the other players he skated with to kick off July. There wasn't an NHL team that took a chance on him, and even a breakout 2022-23 campaign wasn't enough to get his name called at the 2023 NHL Draft in Nashville.
Still, that invite to an NHL development camp meant everything, and he took advantage of that chance.
"It was obviously a tremendous experience," Burkholder said, adding, "They're all such good players. It's nice to watch them and pick up on things that they do well... just trying to soak it all in."
Burkholder busted onto the scene this year as the USHL's top defenseman. He put up 17 goals and 34 assists for 51 points in 62 points with the Dubuque Fighting Saints, and he was tied for the league lead in scoring among defenseman. He also showcased his quick hands, skating ability and grit and physicality that helps him in puck battles.
Despite his standout play and scouting report, the 5-foot-9, 175-pound defenseman would not hear his name called in the 2023 NHL Draft, marking the third year that he was passed over. Burkholder refused to hang his head, though, and is instead using that as motivation.
"I want to prove to everyone that maybe they missed out a little bit," he grinned. "Sorta show what I can do out there on the ice. Playing against all these great players, you got to raise your ability anyway."
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That drive was evident in every stride, every hit and every shot he took at camp. Despite his size, he was one of the most physical players in attendance for the Capitals, and he did everything he could to open the eyes of the coaching staff and decision-makers watching.
"I feel like once you get to this level, everyone's competitive. So anything we do, we like to get competitive and kinda get that edge on someone," Burkholder said. "I feel like I got a lot better."
The 19-year-old describes himself as a two-way defenseman "that takes pride at both ends of the rink."
"I like to contribute offensively, but I think I'm a really good skater that can defend well with my size and kind of close in with good gaps and use my skating to my advantage," he explained.
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Burkholder is headed to Colorado College in the fall, where he will embark on the NCAA route to make his pro dream a reality with the draft no longer an option (he turns 20 on Aug. 8, ending his eligibility).
"My first goals are obviously to help the team win and win a national championship, but also personal goals, whether it's a certain amount of points or stuff like that," Burkholder said. "But just want to help contribute and help the team win."
Fellow Capitals prospect Ryan Chesley, who is entering his second year of NCAA hockey with the University of Minnesota, has been his go-to for advice as he prepares for his freshman year.
Burkholder is set to major in business and economics, but that's plan B for Burkholder, who "definitely" sees himself playing NHL hockey.
"If I keep working hard and keep my head straight," he added with a smile.