Michael Buchinger Biography: Transfers, Parents, Ethnicity, Awards, Net Worth, Ice Hockey, Age, Height

Michael Buchinger is a Canadian professional ice hockey player who has made a name for himself as a promising young defenseman in the St. Louis Blues system.

He gained significant recognition after being selected by the Blues in the 2022 NHL Entry Draft, a pivotal moment in his progression toward the NHL.

His reputation is built on strong performances during his junior career with the Guelph Storm of the Ontario Hockey League, where he demonstrated an offensive flair and strong defensive capabilities.

Michael is known within the hockey world for his high hockey intelligence and leadership qualities on the ice. He is also recognized for proudly sharing his Anishinaabeg heritage, connecting his personal story and background to his professional journey.

Profile

• Full names: Michael Buchinger
• Nickname: Michi
• Date of birth: April 25, 2004
• Age: 21 years old
• Gender: Male
• Place of birth: Markham, Ontario, Canada
• Nationality: Canadian
• Profession: Professional ice hockey player
• Height: 6 ft 0 in
• Weight: 194 lbs
• Eye color: Brown
• Hair color: Brown
• Parents: N/A
• Siblings: N/A
• Spouse: N/A
• Children: N/A
• Relationship status: N/A
• Religion: N/A
• Ethnicity: Anishinaabeg/Ojibwe, European descent
• Net worth: $2 million

Early Life and Education

Michael Buchinger, at the age of 21, was born on April 25, 2004, and raised in the community of Markham, Ontario. His childhood was shaped by a close-knit family environment where hockey became a central focus from an early age. His father was instrumental in introducing him to the sport, taking him to outdoor rinks and fostering his early development.

His late grandmother, an Anishinaabeg woman and a survivor of a residential school, played a key role in his life, imparting cultural knowledge and valuable life lessons about hard work and the importance of heritage.

These teachings helped form a strong sense of cultural identity in Michael as he grew up attending Powwows and learning about the traditions of his Ojibwe ancestors.

He pursued his education concurrently with his amateur hockey career. He played in the Greater Toronto Hockey League for the Toronto Jr. Canadiens U16 AAA team before being drafted into the Ontario Hockey League by the Guelph Storm.

The OHL provided an educational structure that allowed him to continue his studies while developing his athletic skills. Upon turning professional, the focus of his development shifted entirely to his athletic career within the American Hockey League and the St. Louis Blues system.

Personal Life

Michael Buchinger maintains a private personal life, and information regarding his romantic relationships, is not publicly known. There is no information available about a girlfriend, how he met a partner, how he got married, a divorce, or any extramarital affairs.

Career

Michael Buchinger’s career began in the GTHL with the Toronto Jr. Canadiens before the Guelph Storm selected him in the 2020 OHL Priority Selection. His OHL career with the Storm spanned three seasons, from 2021 to 2024.

During this time, he became a top-pairing defenseman known for his reliable play, strong skating, and offensive output. He recorded 44 points in his first full season and increased that to 67 points in his second year, earning him recognition as one of the league’s top defensemen.

His performance with Guelph led to his selection by the St. Louis Blues in the third round (88th overall) of the 2022 NHL Entry Draft. He signed a three-year, entry-level contract with the Blues in March 2023.

He turned professional for the 2024-2025 season and is currently playing with the Springfield Thunderbirds, the Blues’ primary American Hockey League affiliate, where he continues to develop his game at the professional level with the goal of reaching the NHL.

Awards

• OHL All-Rookie First Team (2022)
• OHL Third All-Star Team (2024)

Net Worth

Michael Buchinger’s net worth is estimated to be approximately $2 million. His wealth is primarily accrued from his professional ice hockey salary and signing bonuses.

Social Media

• Instagram: @michibuchinger
• X: @MichiBuchinger