Junior defenseman Boston Buckberger has made a mark on the Denver Pioneers hockey team. He helped lead the Pioneers to their 10th national championship title in his freshman year, earning a reputation as a key player. This season, he was named an alternate captain.
Originally from Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Buckberger played 41 games in the 2024-25 season before a tough upper-body injury sidelined him during the NCHC Championship Game against Western Michigan. Before his injury, he achieved personal bests with nine goals and 21 assists, totaling 30 points. He ranked among the top ten on the team in scoring.
As a freshman in 2023-24, Boston was the only player to skate in all 44 games, contributing to the team’s championship run. He finished with 27 points (five goals, 22 assists) and had an impressive plus-minus rating, showing his skill on the ice.
Buckberger’s accolades include being named NCHC Rookie of the Month in October 2023 and earning NCHC Defenseman of the Week honors twice. Academically, he received the 2025 NCAA Elite 90 Award and has been recognized as a National All-American Scholar every year at DU.
Before joining the Pioneers, he played for the Lincoln Stars in the USHL, where he earned a USHL Third-Team All-Star honor and was an alternate captain. He recorded 45 points (nine goals, 36 assists) in 62 games that season.
Boston is currently majoring in accounting and aims to pursue a professional hockey career after college.
When asked why he chose the University of Denver, he said, “I was drawn to the strong hockey program and the excellent education. Denver is a vibrant city, making it an easy choice for college hockey.”
Boston’s journey into hockey began early, influenced by his father’s professional career. “My dad put skates on me and my twin brother when we were just three years old,” he shared.
Off the ice, he enjoys spending time with teammates, playing poker, and watching various sports. If not for hockey, he would have pursued baseball, a sport he played for many years. He loves country music and sticks to a healthy pre-game meal of turkey, rice, and veggies.
His favorite Netflix show? “Formula 1: Drive to Survive.” Boston follows a consistent pre-game routine, which includes naps and a structured warm-up procedure. He also loves exploring Denver’s dining scene and catching Rockies games at Coors Field.
Buckberger also values giving back and has volunteered in minor baseball and hockey events in Saskatoon, something he takes pride in.
Lastly, Buckberger has a twin brother who also plays hockey. Interestingly, he had never visited Boston until facing off against Boston College in his freshman season.
For more insights on the NCAA and trends in college hockey, check out the NCAA’s official site here.
