Vegas Golden Knights forward Cal Burke scored his first NHL goal Saturday against the Montreal Canadiens and has made quite an impression during his time with the team.
The 27-year-old signed a two-way contract with the Golden Knights during the offseason after stints with the Colorado Avalanche and Carolina Hurricanes. During his tenure in both organizations, he played in three NHL games, but failed to score his first goal or point.
Before signing with the Avalanche in 2020, Burke was the captain of Notre Dame. His NCAA career saw him score 36 goals and 88 points in 146 games.
At just 5’10 and 183 pounds, Burke isn’t the biggest player on the ice, but he plays at a fast pace and is active on the forecheck. Against the Canadiens, he recorded four shots on goal in 12:46. His hard work was rewarded in the second half when he found himself alone in the doghouse.
“It takes a little bit of the pressure off, knowing that you can do it and you have a goal, so you’re not always chasing that goal,” Burke said. “To score my first goal with the help of Eichel and Barbashev is pretty good. Barby made a good pass, put it on a plate for me.”
🎥 Burke: It feels good. It takes a little bit of the pressure off, knowing that you can do it and you have a goal, so you’re not always chasing that goal. pic.twitter.com/5Q4075h4ah
– Vegas Golden Knights (@GoldenKnights) November 24, 2024
Burke was elevated to the top line and did everything asked of him. Playing alongside someone as talented as Jack Eichel, Burke’s main goal is to work hard to get the puck, get it to Eichel and open the play.
“I just try to work for them. Get pucks and open up space for them so they can do their job. It’s good because when I get open they always find me and it’s fun to play with these guys.”
With two games remaining on their current road trip and Victor Olofsson and Mark Stone still out, Burke has a chance to stay in the lineup and move up the ranks.
Burke is a great example of patience, hard work and self-belief.
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