Vegas Golden Knights forward Cal Burke scored his first NHL goal on Saturday against the Montreal Canadiens and is making a strong impression in his stint with the team.
The 27-year-old signed a two-way contract with the Golden Knights in the offseason after stints with the Colorado Avalanche and Carolina Hurricanes. In his time with both organizations, he played in three NHL games but wasn’t able to notch 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.
Listed at just 5’10, 183 lbs, Burke isn’t the biggest player on the ice but plays at a quick 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 period when he found himself alone in the slot.
“It takes a little bit of pressure off, knowing that you can do it and you’ve got a goal, so you’re not always fishing for it,” said Burke. “To score my first goal assisted by Eichel and Barbashev is pretty good. Barby made a good pass, put it on a platter for me.”
🎥 Burke: It feels good. It takes a little bit of pressure off, knowing that you can do it and you’ve got a goal, so you’re not always fishing for it. pic.twitter.com/5Q4075h4ah
— Vegas Golden Knights (@GoldenKnights) November 24, 2024
Burke was elevated to the first line and did everything he was asked. Playing alongside someone as skilled as Jack Eichel, Burke’s main objective is to work hard to get the puck, give it to Eichel and get open.
“I just try to work for them. Get pucks back and open up space for them so they can do their thing. It’s nice because when I get open they’re always finding me and it’s fun to play with those guys.”
With two games remaining on their current road trip and Victor Olofsson and Mark Stone still out, Burke has a chance to keep himself in the lineup and move up the depth chart.
Burke is a great example of staying patient, working hard and believing in yourself.
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