With Max Kotrba, the Crocodiles Hamburg have a young and dangerous Czech forward in their offensive lineup. The 1.86-metre right-handed shot was born in Jihlava and can play on either wing. Kotrba began his development with SKLH Žďár nad Sázavou before continuing his junior career with teams including HC Chotěboř, HC Poruba and AZ Havířov. With Havířov, he also gained experience in the top Czech U20 league.

Kotrba took his first steps in senior hockey in his native Czech Republic. During the 2022/23 season, he already saw significant action with Orli Znojmo in the Czech third tier, appearing in 28 games including the playoffs. He later played for HHK Velké Meziříčí, BK Havlíčkův Brod and SKLH Žďár nad Sázavou, gaining valuable senior-level experience at a young age.

His scoring ability became particularly evident in the Czech fourth tier. Playing for SK Telč, Kotrba developed into a highly productive offensive player. In the 2024/25 season, for example, he recorded an impressive 23 points in just 12 games, including ten goals. Overall, Kotrba has produced 39 goals and 24 assists in 43 games at that level – an impressive total of 63 points.

In January 2026, Kotrba made the move to Germany and joined the Crocodiles Hamburg. Despite arriving midway through the season, the young Czech quickly adapted to his new surroundings. In six regular-season games, he scored three goals and added one assist. He continued to find the back of the net in the playoffs, scoring another three goals in five games. That gave him a total of six goals and seven points in his first eleven games for the Crocodiles.

Kotrba combines physical presence with a strong drive to the net and a natural scoring touch. The versatile winger is not afraid to attack dangerous areas and has already shown throughout his career in Czechia that he knows how to finish his chances. Despite his young age, he also brings several years of experience in senior hockey.

With his scoring ability, energy and further development potential, Kotrba is expected to continue providing an important offensive threat for the Crocodiles.