Max Willman Bio
Maxwell Willman is an American professional ice hockey forward who is currently an unrestricted free agent. He most recently played for the Utica Comets of the American Hockey League (AHL) while under contract with the New Jersey Devils of the National Hockey League (NHL). The Buffalo Sabres selected Willman in the fifth round, 121st overall, of the 2014 NHL Entry Draft. Willman’s career has seen him transition through various teams, showcasing his skills and determination on the ice.
Early Life and Background
Maxwell Willman was born on February 13, 1995, in Barnstable, Massachusetts, to parents Peyton and Timothy Willman. He began ice skating at the tender age of three, participating in minor ice hockey teams in Barnstable and Foxborough, Massachusetts. Willman eventually joined the varsity team at Barnstable High School, where he made a significant impact. He led the ice hockey team in scoring for two seasons and served as captain during the 2012–13 season. Under his leadership, Barnstable won three consecutive Old Colony League championship titles and achieved 52 regular season victories.
Initially, Willman received no NCAA Division I scholarship offers to play college ice hockey, which led him to consider attending Quinnipiac University as a non-athlete. However, after being noticed by the head coach at Williston Northampton School, he reconsidered his decision. Willman spent a postgraduate year at Williston Northampton, where he served as captain and top-line center, leading the team with 21 goals and 44 points.
Path to Hockey
After being drafted by the Buffalo Sabres in 2014, Willman committed to playing college ice hockey at Brown University. He made an immediate impact, scoring his first NCAA goal in his debut game against the United States Military Academy. During the 2016–17 season, he set career highs with 11 goals and 26 points in just 31 games. Unfortunately, Willman suffered a knee injury during his senior season in 2017–18, limiting him to just nine games and allowing him an additional season of NCAA eligibility. He then enrolled in a graduate program at Boston University to continue his hockey career.
Following his time at Boston University, the Sabres opted not to sign Willman. He subsequently accepted an offer from the Reading Royals of the ECHL, which is a minor league affiliate of the Philadelphia Flyers. By the end of the 2019–20 season, Willman had advanced to the Lehigh Valley Phantoms of the AHL, marking his ascent in professional hockey.
Max Willman Career
Early Career (2021–2023)
Max Willman made his NHL debut during the Philadelphia Flyers’ 2021–22 season home opener against the Vancouver Canucks on October 15, 2021. He filled in for a roster that was impacted by travel protocols and injuries. Willman scored his first NHL goal on December 10, 2021, in a game against the Vegas Golden Knights, contributing to Philadelphia’s 4–3 victory.
After spending four seasons with the Flyers organization, Willman became a free agent. He accepted a professional tryout contract to attend the pre-season training camp of the New Jersey Devils. On October 7, 2023, he signed a one-year, two-way contract with the Devils but was immediately placed on waivers. After clearing waivers, he began the 2023–24 season with the AHL affiliate, the Utica Comets.
Breakthrough (2023–Present)
Willman’s journey with the New Jersey Devils has been marked by significant achievements. He was recalled to the Devils on November 4, 2023, and scored his first goal as a Devil the following day in a 4–2 win over the Chicago Blackhawks. On May 7, 2024, as a pending free agent, Willman signed a one-year, two-way contract extension to remain with the New Jersey Devils.
Notable Works and Milestones
Throughout his career, Max Willman has demonstrated resilience and skill, notably scoring his first NHL goal and securing a contract extension with the New Jersey Devils. His journey reflects his dedication to the sport and his potential for future success.
Max Willman Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Max Willman has not yet received any notable award nominations.
Max Willman Awards Won
Max Willman has not yet won any significant awards during his professional hockey career.
Max Willman Family
Max Willman was born to Timothy and Peyton Willman. There is limited public information available regarding his family beyond his parents.
Personal Life
Details about Max Willman’s personal life, including marital status and children, are not publicly available.