TAKEAWAYS:

• It took Graham three attempts at the NHL Draft before he finally got drafted.
• Graham discusses how being overlooked in the draft has served as a source of motivation for him.
• Graham eagerly anticipates being mentored by the skilled Devils development staff.

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Max Graham had previously attended a development camp in 2022 with the Calgary Flames, but being at the New Jersey Devils’ camp surpassed that experience.

This time, he wasn’t merely an invited player; he became a draft pick for the Devils in the NHL Draft, specifically chosen in the fifth round as the 139th overall pick.

He expressed, “The experience is certainly much changed. You feel a greater sense of assurance when you arrive because you recognize that everyone here appreciated your abilities enough to choose you in the draft, whereas during my time in Calgary, I was merely present as a guest.”

The organization places utmost importance on their signed and drafted players, which can make you feel somewhat sidelined or overlooked. However, as a drafted player who is already part of the organization, being here is truly amazing.

On the second day of the draft, Graham and his family were not particularly engrossed in the TV. After all, he had already been overlooked in the past two drafts and was now entering this one as a 20-year-old. However, this time, his moment had finally come.

“I was simply at home with my family,” he recounted, “The draft was playing on the TV in the background. We were all gathered together, not really paying close attention, when suddenly my name appeared on the screen. It definitely sparked excitement within me. Shortly after, everything happened swiftly. That very night, I found myself on a plane heading towards Newark.”

Graham explained that the experience of waiting for two years during the draft and hearing his name called was not entirely new to him, as it had been a significant part of his entire hockey journey.

He expressed, “Without a doubt, it fuels me. Just like in the junior draft during my Bantam days, I was never chosen for the WHL. However, I persisted and earned a spot on the A team at the age of 16, and my journey continued from there. Even at 17 and 18, I was overlooked in the NHL draft, but now I have finally been selected, and I must say it is truly satisfying.”

He further emphasized that perseverance is essential, regardless of being chosen or not. The journey is arduous, requiring continuous effort. Surprisingly, not being selected may have served as a positive catalyst, igniting a strong determination within him and propelling him further. Ultimately, it has proven to be a beneficial source of motivation.

As a drafted player, Graham is eager to go back to his junior team in Kelowna. He still has one year of eligibility left as a 20-year-old and is excited about this opportunity. He is particularly looking forward to being closely observed by the Devils development staff, whom he got to know during his three-day camp experience.

He expressed, “It was truly incredible. I gained a great deal from my experience, acquiring valuable insights both on and off the ice. Meeting numerous new individuals was a highlight, as I enthusiastically shook hands with countless people throughout the week. Undoubtedly, it was a pleasant experience. Additionally, I’ve gained a comprehensive understanding of how things operate here, and it appears to function flawlessly.”

It fills you with anticipation for your next visit.