Max Lundgren, an undrafted goaltender, signed a one‑year, entry‑level contract with the Boston Bruins in March 2026, bringing to an end a journey that began far from the NHL’s bright lights.
Early Inspiration and European Roots
At ten years old, Lundgren first laced up a mask after watching Jacob Markstrom guard the net for the Vancouver Canucks, a moment that sparked a lifelong ambition. He spent his formative years in Sweden with Rögle BK, honing his reflexes on the smaller European rinks before crossing the Atlantic.
After a season in the United States Hockey League with the Des Moines Buccaneers, Lundgren enrolled at Merrimack College, where he initially faced eligibility hurdles after a year in the Swedish Hockey League. Assistant coach Dan Jewell convinced head coach Scott Borek to give the young netminder a chance, a decision that would reshape the program’s fortunes.
Off the ice, Lundgren pursued a business degree with a finance concentration, setting a standard of professionalism that inspired teammates. He posted a program‑record 1,134 saves in a single season, a 2.55 goals‑against average and a .920 save percentage over 39 games, and was unanimously named Hockey East Tournament MVP.
A Humble Presence in the Locker Room
Coaches repeatedly praised his humility; even when sidelined, he remained a constant presence, supporting peers and attending every practice with the same intensity he brought to games. That dedication caught the eye of Boston’s goaltender development coach Mike Dunham, who highlighted Lundgren’s size, composure and control as qualities that translate well to the professional game.
The Bruins also added two more prospects at the 2026 NHL Draft, naming Yuri Ivanov and Roberto Henriquez among the selected goalies, underscoring the organization’s commitment to depth. Dunham, who works with all of the team’s net‑minders, is already shaping Lundgren’s game for the next level.
Looking Ahead at Development Camp
Now attending the Bruins’ Development Camp at Warrior Ice Arena, Lundgren is absorbing every lesson, from on‑ice drills to off‑ice preparation, as he prepares for the challenges of professional hockey. The organization’s leadership, including General Manager Scott Borek, has expressed confidence that Lundgren’s work ethic will make him a valuable asset.