Michigan State’s Maxim Strbak Signs NHL Entry-Level Deal with Buffalo

As expected, the Michigan State Spartans hockey team is losing players left and right. When you’re as good as the Spartans were this season, it’s inevitable that the NHL clubs holding the rights to many of your players are going to come calling. And not many players are going to turn down the chance to sign an entry-level contract.

Next up for Michigan State is standout defenseman Maxim Strbak, who has signed a three-year entry-level contract with the Buffalo Sabres. Strbak was selected in the second round, 45th overall, by Buffalo in the 2023 NHL Draft. Over the last three years, the Spartans have greatly benefited from having Strbak on the blue line.

He appeared in 102 games for Michigan State and became one of the most reliable and steady defensemen on the roster during his time in East Lansing. He finished his junior season at +20, which ranked tied for fourth on the team. Strbak also finished third on the Spartans with 38 blocked shots, further showing the kind of dependable, hard-nosed presence he brought to the defensive end.

Offensively, Strbak also found ways to contribute throughout his career in the green and white. He totaled eight goals and 38 assists during his time as a Spartan, finishing with 46 career points. More than just the numbers, though, Strbak made a real impact on the program.