Max Heise, a rising star in the hockey world, is making waves with his latest decision to switch commitments from Michigan State University (MSU) to the University of Denver (DU). This move comes after a remarkable journey, showcasing his rapid development and potential as a centerman. With a strong foundation in the British Columbia Hockey League (BCHL) and a breakthrough season in the Western Hockey League (WHL), Heise is now ready to take on the challenge of the NCAA.
A Journey of Development
Heise's story is one of continuous growth and improvement. In his time with the Penticton Vees in the BCHL, he showcased his scoring ability, amassing 27 goals and 40 points in 50 games. This performance caught the eye of the San Jose Sharks, who drafted him 150th overall in 2025. The following season, Heise joined the Prince Albert Raiders, where he became an alternate captain and produced an impressive 29 goals and 63 points in 63 WHL games. This success led him to the next level of competition.
The NCAA Challenge
The decision to switch to DU is a significant one, as the Pioneers have been a force to be reckoned with in recent years. Under head coach David Carle, DU has won three NCAA championships in the last six years. Heise is eager to contribute to this success and believes that the faster pace of play and the physicality of college hockey will further enhance his development. He states, 'Every level you go up is faster, and obviously the NCAA you have older guys. I’ll be going up against man strength.'
Evolving Playstyle
Heise's playstyle has evolved, focusing on physicality and utilizing his speed to drive pucks to the net. He emphasizes that his approach remains consistent, regardless of the age of his opponents. 'Playing physical, using my speed, driving pucks to the net. Just because [college players are] older, doesn’t mean that I should try away from it or get away from my game. I gotta stay on par with it, and play the way I can.'
A Personal Decision
The decision to decommit from MSU was a personal one, as Heise had been committed to the program for three years. He expresses gratitude for the opportunity, but believes that DU is the better fit for his goals. 'Two great programs. Michigan State, I was committed there for three years, and I just thought that Denver would be a better fit for me. I’m really excited. I can’t thank Michigan State enough for how they treated me for the three years, but I’m really looking forward to get to Denver.'
Pohlkamp's Influence
Heise also mentions the impact of Eric Pohlkamp, a fellow DU commit, Ryan Lin, and their shared experiences. Pohlkamp's advice and recommendations, including a favorite local bagel shop, have made the transition smoother. Heise appreciates the personal touch, stating, 'He gave us some spots to go to eat. We’re talking about campus. I know how much he loved it there, so it’s been great to get to know him as well... He was talking about this bagel shop. He wouldn’t stop talking about it, so I forget the name of it, but I’ll definitely go there.'
Looking Ahead
As Heise embarks on his NCAA journey, he is eager to contribute to DU's success. He highlights his defensive capabilities, particularly in penalty-killing situations, and his ability to chip in on the scoring front. Coach David Carle's strategy for Heise is clear: 'Come in and be confident, use my speed. A big thing is my defensive game. I can really help on the PK side of things, whether it’s blocking shots or taking a face-off. That’s my role, and obviously I want to chip in on the scoring side too. Just use my 200-foot game.'
In conclusion, Max Heise's decision to switch to DU is a testament to his ambition and growth. With a strong foundation, a clear vision, and the support of his coaches and peers, Heise is poised to make a significant impact in the NCAA. His journey is an inspiring tale of a young athlete's determination to reach new heights.
