Midfielders Scott Pendlebury and Luke Ball are also in the running, according to the Magpies coach.
"Personally, I don't see any reason why Maxy wouldn't be [captain]," Buckley said.
"But our players will choose their own leadership group, who they choose to follow and who leads positively."
While Pendlebury is the next obvious candidate for the captaincy, Buckley nominated Luke Ball as another possibility.
Ball was sidelined for almost the whole of last season after tearing his ACL in round three against Carlton.
While it was a frustrating time for Ball, Buckley lauded his off-field leadership even though he was not in a position to contribute on the field.
"I think Bally's been a great leader, easily forgotten when you've had to carry an injury through the whole season and you haven't been able to perform on-field," he said.
"I think it's fair to say that those three are the standout leaders for us."
Buckley said it was "unlikely" Ball would be available for any of the NAB Cup, as he continues his rehabilitation from his knee injury.
The midfielder was running laps at Collingwood training on Wednesday morning.
Ben Guthrie is a reporter for AFL.com.au.
