Max Calce: Rising Hockey Star Extends Contract with Adler Mannheim

Mannheim, Germany – February 24, 2026 – In a noteworthy development for German ice hockey, 16-year-aged Max Penkin, now officially Max Calce, has extended his contract with Adler Mannheim of the Deutsche Eishockey Liga (DEL). This announcement follows Calce’s recent decision to adopt his mother’s last name.

A Promising Career Takes Shape

Calce made history on September 14, 2025, becoming the youngest player ever to debut for Adler Mannheim in the DEL. His talent and dedication have quickly made him a player to watch in German hockey.

Contract Extension and Development

“Max has continuously improved and is meticulously pushing forward his development. We are proud that he is continuing his sporting career with us in Mannheim,” stated head coach and sports manager Dallas Eakins Elite Prospects.

Early Career Highlights

Born on June 11, 2009, in Mannheim, Germany, Calce has demonstrated exceptional skill from a young age. He played for the Jungadler Mannheim U15 and U17 teams, consistently ranking among the top scorers in his age group. Neutral Zone provides a record of his performance across various leagues.

Key statistics from his youth career include:

• 2021-2022 (Jungadler Mannheim U15, Germany U15): 16 games played, 9 goals, 5 assists, 14 points, 4 penalty minutes
• 2023-2024 (Jungadler Mannheim U17, Germany U17): 34 games played, 29 goals, 26 assists, 55 points, 14 penalty minutes
• 2024-2025 (Jungadler Mannheim U20, DNL U20): 41 games played, 22 goals, 28 assists, 50 points, 49 penalty minutes

International Play

Calce has too represented Germany on the international stage, participating in the U16 and U18 World Championships. Neutral Zone details his participation in these events.

• 2023-2024 (Germany U16): 31 games played, 23 goals, 30 points
• 2024-2025 (Germany U17): 42 games played, 20 points
• 2024-2025 (Germany U18 WJC-18): 5 games played, 1 goal, 3 points

NHL Draft Prospect

Calce is eligible for the 2027 NHL Entry Draft and is currently ranked 449th overall by Muskegon Lumberjacks in the USHL Futures Draft. Neutral Zone and Elite Prospects both identify him as a prospect to watch.

Name Change

The recent change to Max Calce reflects a personal decision to adopt his mother’s surname. This change does not affect his playing status or contract with Adler Mannheim.