Slovakia is a country with a rich tradition in ice hockey. Home to some of the best players in the world, Slovakia has produced some of the greatest names in the sport. From stars in the NHL to international superstars, Slovakia has a long history of producing talented players.
This article will highlight some of the best ice hockey players from Slovakia, and discuss their achievements and what makes them so successful.
1. Miroslav Šatan
Miroslav Šatan is a legendary Slovak professional ice hockey player who had a long and illustrious career in the sport. He began his professional career playing five seasons in the Tipos Extraliga, which is the top professional ice hockey league in Slovakia.
After that, he moved on to play 15 seasons in the National Hockey League (NHL) in North America. During this time, he was a major contributor to many successful teams, including the Buffalo Sabres, the New York Islanders, the Pittsburgh Penguins, and the Toronto Maple Leafs.
Šatan also played three seasons in the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL), which is the top professional ice hockey league in Europe. In 2019, Šatan was inducted into the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) Hall of Fame in recognition of his remarkable career.
This honor was a fitting tribute to his immense contributions to the sport, both in Slovakia and the NHL.
His hard work, dedication, and skill have earned him the respect of fans and players alike, and he will go down in history as one of the greatest Slovak ice hockey players of all time.
2. Žigmund Pálffy
Žigmund “Ziggy” Pálffy is a Slovak ice hockey player who gained recognition for his outstanding skill as a winger. Nicknamed “Žigo” in Slovak, Pálffy had an impressive career in the National Hockey League (NHL) lasting 12 years.
He began his career with the New York Islanders in 1993, before moving to the Los Angeles Kings in 1999. He remained with the Kings until 2005 when he joined the Pittsburgh Penguins.
During his time in the NHL, Pálffy was known for his formidable offensive skills and his ability to produce points consistently. One of his most impressive statistics was his impressive plus-minus rating of 90, which was the fourth highest in NHL history at the time.
After his retirement in 2006, Pálffy continued to be an influential figure in the world of ice hockey and was inducted into the Slovak Hockey Hall of Fame in 2008. He is remembered as one of the best players to ever come out of Slovakia.
3. Marián Hossa
Marián Hossa is a renowned Slovak former professional ice hockey player. He was a right winger who spent the majority of his career in the National Hockey League (NHL). Hossa’s career began in 1997 when he was drafted in the first round, 12th overall, by the Ottawa Senators.
During his time in the NHL, Hossa enjoyed immense success, playing for teams such as the Pittsburgh Penguins, Detroit Red Wings, and Chicago Blackhawks. Hossa was known for his powerful skating and shooting abilities and was a consistent point producer throughout his career.
He is a three-time Stanley Cup champion and was also a five-time NHL All-Star. Additionally, Hossa was a member of the Slovak national team at the Winter Olympics in 2006 and 2010, as well as the World Cup of Hockey in 2004 and 2016.
The veteran hockey player retired from the NHL in 2018, after an impressive 21-year career.
4. Ľubomír Višňovský
Ľubomír Višňovský is a name that will go down in history as one of the greatest Slovak ice hockey defencemen of all time. He began his career in his hometown of Bratislava, playing for HC Slovan Bratislava.
He quickly made a name for himself and earned himself a move to the National Hockey League, where he played for 14 seasons. During his time in the NHL, he featured for the Los Angeles Kings, Edmonton Oilers, Anaheim Ducks and New York Islanders.
Višňovský was renowned for his defensive capabilities, as well as his ability to chip in with goals and assists. He was a key part of the Los Angeles Kings team that reached the Stanley Cup finals in 1993 and was one of the most consistent players in the NHL during his time.
He also represented Slovakia at the Olympics in 2002 and 2006 and was an integral part of the team that won a bronze medal in 2002. After 14 seasons in the NHL, Ľubomír Višňovský returned to his hometown club, HC Slovan Bratislava.
He played four more seasons there before officially retiring in 2016. His legacy as one of the greatest Slovak ice hockey defencemen of all time will continue to live on for many years to come.
5. Peter Bondra
Peter Bondra is an esteemed figure in the world of ice hockey. Born in Ukraine, he moved to Slovakia to pursue his career in the sport. In his prime, Bondra was a stellar professional ice hockey player, renowned for his talent and skill.
His career highlight includes a 500th NHL goal, setting a record for the Washington Capitals. After his retirement from the professional ice hockey world, Bondra went on to become the General Manager of the Slovakia National Team, from 2007 to 2011.
During his time in the role, Bondra was an invaluable asset to the team, providing leadership and direction. He was credited with helping the team to several successful seasons, including a bronze medal at the 2011 World Championship.
Despite his departure from the team in 2011, Peter Bondra’s impact on Slovakia’s hockey program will remain for many years to come.
6. Marián Gáborík
Marián Gáborík is a Slovak former professional ice hockey right winger. He had an impressive playing career, beginning with Dukla Trenčín in the Slovak Extraliga.
Gáborík spent two seasons with Dukla Trenčín before being drafted third overall in the 2000 NHL Entry Draft by the Minnesota Wild. After his draft, Gáborík was signed by the Wild and made his NHL debut at the start of the 2000–01 season.
During his NHL career, Gáborík played for the Wild, the New York Rangers, the Los Angeles Kings, and the Columbus Blue Jackets. Gáborík was a three-time NHL All-Star and won the Stanley Cup with the Los Angeles Kings in 2014.
He also represented Slovakia at the 2006 Winter Olympics, winning a bronze medal. Gáborík was known for his speed and skill on the ice and was one of the top goal scorers in the NHL in the 2000s. He retired from the NHL in 2019 after 19 seasons in the league.
Gáborík is the all-time leading scorer for the Slovak national team and is considered one of the best Slovak players in history. His legacy in hockey will live on for years to come, as he was a great player and an ambassador for the game of hockey.
7. Zdeno Chára
Zdeno Chára is an accomplished former professional ice hockey defenceman from Slovakia. He had an impressive 24-year career in the National Hockey League (NHL) that spanned from 1997 to 2022.
His career began with the New York Islanders, where he spent four seasons before moving on to the Ottawa Senators in 2001. After six successful years with the Senators, he moved to the Boston Bruins in 2006, where he would go on to become the team’s longest-serving captain.
In 2020, he signed with the Washington Capitals and played in the Stanley Cup Finals with the team in 2021.
Chára’s impressive career includes being the first Slovak hockey player to win the Stanley Cup, the first European captain to win the title, and the oldest NHL player to ever record a point in the final game of the Stanley Cup Finals.
He is an inspiring figure in the hockey world and will continue to be remembered for many years to come.
8. Pavol Demitra
Pavol Demitra was a highly accomplished Slovak professional ice hockey player, with an impressive 19 seasons of professional hockey experience.
During his career, Demitra played for a number of teams in multiple leagues, including the Czechoslovak First Ice Hockey League, National Hockey League, Slovak Extraliga, and Kontinental Hockey League.
He was known as a skilled offensive player and was a top-line forward in every team he played for.
His offensive capabilities meant he was always an integral part of any team he joined, and he was a prolific scorer, ending his career with an impressive 635 points in 847 NHL games.
Demitra’s impressive career made him one of the most successful Slovak players in the history of professional hockey, and his legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of hockey fans everywhere.
9. Branko Radivojevič
Branko Radivojevič is a Slovak former professional ice hockey player who had an illustrious career. He began his career with his hometown team HK Dukla Trenčín of the Slovak Extraliga, and he ended his career with the same team.
During his career, he had the opportunity to play in the prestigious National Hockey League. He played for three teams in the NHL – the Phoenix Coyotes, Philadelphia Flyers and Minnesota Wild.
He was known for his hard work and dedication to the sport, as well as his ability to perform in high pressure situations. Radivojevič was an important part of his teams, and he was a key contributor to their success.
He was a true professional, and his legacy in the sport will be remembered for years to come.
10. Ľubomír Sekeráš
Ľubomír Sekeráš is a retired professional ice hockey player from Slovakia. He is most well-known for his stints in the National Hockey League (NHL), with the Minnesota Wild and Dallas Stars.
However, he is probably best remembered for his time playing with his hometown team, HC Dukla Trenčín, in the Slovak Extraliga. Sekeráš began his career in his native Slovakia, playing for HC Dukla Trenčín in the Slovak Extraliga.
During his time with the team, they were one of the most successful teams in the league, winning multiple championships. In the 1998-99 season, Sekeráš was signed by the Minnesota Wild of the NHL.
He would go on to play for the Wild for two seasons before moving on to the Dallas Stars.
With the Stars, Sekeráš played for three seasons before returning to his original team in Slovakia, HC Dukla Trenčín.Sekeráš retired from professional hockey in 2010 and is now an assistant coach for his hometown team.
He is remembered as a key contributor to the Slovak Extraliga during his time with HC Dukla Trenčín and for his time in the NHL with the Minnesota Wild and Dallas Stars.
11. Ladislav Nagy
Ladislav Nagy is a retired Slovak ice hockey player who had a successful career in the National Hockey League (NHL). He played left winger for eight seasons with four different teams. Nagy started his NHL career with the St. Louis Blues in 2000 and played four years with them.
He had a career-high season in 2003-2004, scoring 63 points and was selected to the NHL All-Star Game. After his stint with the Blues, he was traded to the Phoenix Coyotes in 2004. He spent two seasons with the Coyotes before being traded to the Dallas Stars in 2006.
He had a successful stint with the Stars, scoring 41 points in the 2007-2008 season before signing with the Los Angeles Kings in 2009. He retired from the NHL in 2012 after playing three seasons with the Kings. Throughout his career, Nagy was known for his offensive prowess.
He was a two-time All-Star and scored at least 40 points in five of his eight seasons in the NHL. He also led his teams in scoring during his tenure with the Blues and the Coyotes. Ladislav Nagy’s impressive NHL career earned him respect from both fans and peers.
He was inducted into the Slovak Hockey Hall of Fame in 2015 and is remembered as one of the best Slovak players to ever play in the NHL.
12. Peter Šťastný
Peter Šťastný is a legendary figure in ice hockey. He is a Slovak-Canadian former professional ice hockey player who played in the National Hockey League from 1980 to 1995. He is known by many nicknames such as “Peter the Great” and “Stosh”.
During his time in the NHL, Šťastný was one of the best players in the league. He was the second-highest scorer of the 1980s, only behind legendary Wayne Gretzky.
His legacy as one of the greatest players of all time was cemented with his induction into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1998. Šťastný was a multiple time All-Star and was named to the NHL’s 100 Greatest Players list in 2017.
He has also been honoured with numerous awards and accolades during his career, including a Stanley Cup Championship in 1986. Šťastný was known for his creative and offensive play, which made him a fan favourite.
He was also a great leader with an immense work ethic, which inspired many young players to pursue the same level of excellence. His impact on the game of ice hockey is still felt today, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of players.
13. Michal Handzuš
Michal Handzuš is an accomplished Slovak former professional ice hockey center. He had an impressive career in his native country prior to joining the NHL. Handzuš began his career playing for his hometown club, HC ’05 Banská Bystrica, located in Slovakia’s Extraliga.
He proved to be an excellent player, and his ability to help his team succeed earned him a spot on the Slovak National Team.
In 1998, Handzuš made the jump to the National Hockey League, where he played for several teams, including the Los Angeles Kings, the Phoenix Coyotes, and the Chicago Blackhawks. During his time in the NHL, Handzuš played in 657 games, tallying a total of 307 points.
He represented Slovakia in multiple international competitions, including the Olympic Games in 2010 and 2014. Handzuš’s success on the ice has earned him multiple accolades, such as the Slovak Golden Stick award in 2001 and 2002.
Although his professional career has come to a close, Handzuš is remembered fondly by his fans in Slovakia and around the world.
14. Richard Pánik
Richard Pánik is a professional ice hockey right winger from Slovakia. He is currently a free agent, meaning he is not signed to any team.
He was drafted in the 2009 NHL Entry Draft by the Tampa Bay Lightning in the second round, with the 52nd overall pick. Pánik has played for multiple teams throughout his career. He began his career playing for the Slovak Extraliga team HK Orange 20.
He then moved to the American Hockey League team Norfolk Admirals. He was then traded to the Syracuse Crunch in 2012. After that, he was signed to the Tampa Bay Lightning and played for their AHL affiliate, the Crunch until 2014.
He then moved to the Chicago Blackhawks and their AHL affiliate, Rockford IceHogs.In 2017, Pánik signed a two-year contract with the Arizona Coyotes. He played in Arizona for two season before becoming a free agent in 2019.
Since then, he has yet to sign with any team, although his skill set and experience make him a valuable asset to any team.
15. Andrej Meszároš
Andrej Meszároš is a Slovak professional ice hockey player who is currently a free agent. Meszároš was drafted in the first round of the 2004 NHL Entry Draft, 23rd overall, by the Ottawa Senators.
He has previously played for the Buffalo Sabres, Boston Bruins, Philadelphia Flyers, and Tampa Bay Lightning in the National Hockey League (NHL). Meszároš has had a long and successful career playing in the NHL.
He began his career with the Buffalo Sabres in 2006 after being drafted by the Ottawa Senators. He then went on to play for the Boston Bruins, Philadelphia Flyers and Tampa Bay Lightning before becoming a free agent in 2017.
During his time in the NHL, Meszároš showed his skill and dedication to the game, playing in 545 games and recording 52 goals and 99 assists. Meszároš is a highly respected player amongst his peers, and he has earned a reputation as one of the best players in the league.
He is a two-time NHL All-Star, and in 2017 he was awarded the Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy for his dedication and perseverance to the game.
Despite being a free agent since 2017, Meszároš continues to be a highly sought-after player, and it is expected that he will be signed to a new team soon.
16. Andrej Sekera
Andrej Sekera is a retired Slovak professional ice hockey defenceman who had a successful career in the National Hockey League. He began his career with the Buffalo Sabres in 2006, playing four seasons with them before signing with the Carolina Hurricanes in 2010.
During his career with the Hurricanes, Sekera was part of a Stanley Cup run in 2006 and made a name for himself as a reliable defenceman. In 2014, he signed with the Los Angeles Kings and two years later he was traded to the Edmonton Oilers.
Sekera played a key role in helping the Oilers make the playoffs in 2017 and 2018. He then finished his career with the Dallas Stars, retiring in 2020.
Throughout his NHL career, Sekera was known for his strong defensive play and his ability to transition the puck up the ice quickly. He was also a leader in the locker room and a respected veteran on the ice.
Sekera’s NHL career was an impressive one and he was an important part of several teams during his time in the league.
17. Milan Jurčina
Milan Jurčina is a Slovak professional ice hockey defenceman. He has been playing professionally since 2003 and is currently an unrestricted free agent. This means that he is free to sign with any team of his choosing.
Jurčina has spent most of his career playing in the National Hockey League. He has played for teams such as the Boston Bruins, Washington Capitals, Columbus Blue Jackets, and the New York Islanders.
He has also had a stint in the Kontinental Hockey League, playing for Slovan Bratislava and Torpedo Nizhny Novgorod. Most recently, Jurčina was playing for the Thomas Sabo Ice Tigers in the Deutsche Eishockey Liga.
His time with the Ice Tigers began in the 2018-19 season and he played a total of 27 games. During this time, he recorded six assists and he was a plus-3. Jurčina has had a long and successful career in the NHL and in Europe.
He is now an unrestricted free agent, so he has the freedom to choose any team he wishes to play for. He will be a valuable asset to any team he joins.
18. Anton Šťastný
Anton Šťastný was a Slovak professional ice hockey player who made history. He was the first player born and trained in Slovakia to be drafted by an NHL team. He played for the Quebec Nordiques for nine seasons, from 1980 until 1989.
During this time, he became a prominent figure in the hockey world and an inspiration to other Slovakian players. Šťastný’s career began in Slovakia, where he played in the Slovak League.
He quickly gained recognition for his skill and was eventually drafted by the Quebec Nordiques in the NHL Entry Draft. This was a major achievement for Slovakian hockey, as no other player from the country had achieved this level of success before.
Once he joined the Nordiques, Šťastný quickly established himself as a valuable player. He was an effective scorer, tallying up over 150 goals and over 200 assists during his tenure with the team.
He was also renowned for his physical play and his willingness to stand up for his teammates in difficult situations. Šťastný’s career with the Nordiques came to an end in 1989, but his impact on the sport of hockey was far-reaching.
His success paved the way for future Slovakian players to pursue their dreams of playing in the NHL. He is remembered as a pioneer and an inspiration for generations of hockey players from Slovakia.
19. Jaroslav Halák
Jaroslav Halák is a Slovak professional ice hockey goaltender who is currently an unrestricted free agent. He has had a long and successful career, having most recently played for the New York Rangers of the National Hockey League.
Halák was originally selected with the 271st overall pick by the Montreal Canadiens in the 2003 NHL Entry Draft.
This was the ninth and final round of the draft, making him the last player to be drafted. The Slovakian goaltender has had a very successful career since being drafted. He has played for the Montreal Canadiens, St.
Louis Blues, Boston Bruins, Washington Capitals, New York Islanders, and the New York Rangers.
He has also played in the American Hockey League and the Slovak Extraliga. Halák has had a lot of success during his career, including winning the 2009–10 Jacques Plante Memorial Trophy for having the best goals against average in the NHL. He also won the William M.
Jennings Trophy in 2012–13, awarded to the goaltender(s) having played a minimum of 25 games for the team with the fewest goals scored against it during the regular season. Halák is currently an unrestricted free agent and is looking for a team to sign with.
He has had a long and successful career in the NHL, and he is no doubt an asset to any team he joins.
20. Tomáš Kopecký
Tomáš Kopecký is a renowned Slovak ice hockey player who had a successful career in the National Hockey League (NHL). He played for three prominent teams – the Detroit Red Wings, Chicago Blackhawks and Florida Panthers.
Throughout his career, Kopecký has won two Stanley Cup championships, one with the Red Wings and the other with the Blackhawks. This is a remarkable achievement, as very few players have the privilege of winning the Stanley Cup with two teams in their career.
Kopecký was most notably remembered for his time with the Red Wings, where he played for seven seasons and was part of the Stanley Cup championship team in 2008. He also had a successful stint with the Blackhawks, winning the Stanley Cup in 2010.
Kopecký’s impressive career in the NHL has earned him a spot in the history books as one of the most successful Slovak ice hockey players of all time.
21. Tomáš Tatar
Tomáš Tatar is a Slovak professional ice hockey left winger who currently plays for the Colorado Avalanche in the National Hockey League (NHL).
He was selected in the 2009 NHL Entry Draft by the Detroit Red Wings with the 60th overall pick. Tatar has been a member of the Colorado Avalanche since the 2019-2020 season and has made a great impact for the team since then.
He scored a total of 22 goals and 20 assists during the regular season and helped the Avalanche reach the playoffs for the first time since 2014.
He also added two goals and three assists during the playoffs, helping the Avalanche to win the Stanley Cup in 2020. Tatar has had a successful career since he was first drafted. In his first two seasons with the Detroit Red Wings, he scored a total of 44 points.
He then spent the following four years with the Montreal Canadiens, where he scored a total of 116 points.
In the 2017-2018 season, he was traded to the Vegas Golden Knights, and he scored a total of 54 points in his one season with the team. Tatar’s success with the Colorado Avalanche is a testament to his skill and hard work.
He is an important player for the team and his presence has been instrumental in helping the Avalanche reach the playoffs and ultimately win the Stanley Cup. Tatar is an excellent example of a player who was drafted late but has developed into a top player in the NHL.
22. Martin Štrbák
Martin Štrbák is a retired Slovak ice hockey defenceman who had a successful professional career. He began his playing career in the Slovak Extraliga in 1997 with HC Košice. In his four campaigns with the team, he scored 10 goals and added 18 assists in 87 regular season games.
He then moved to HC Slovan Bratislava in 2001 and put up even better numbers, with 11 goals and 24 assists in just 58 regular season games. He also had a successful international career, debuting for Slovakia at the 1999 World Championships.
He continued to represent the national team in the 2003 and 2004 World Championships, and the 2002 and 2004 World Cup of Hockey. In the 2006-07 season, Štrbák returned to HC Košice and played one season before retiring in 2008.
During his final season, he scored 4 goals and added 7 assists in 36 games. After retiring, he was inducted into the Slovak Hockey Hall of Fame in 2009. Martin Štrbák’s career was distinguished by his success both in the Slovak Extraliga and internationally.
He was a reliable defenceman who was able to put up solid offensive numbers and was a key member of the Slovak national team for several years.
23. Marcel Hossa
Marcel Hossa is a retired professional ice hockey left winger who hails from Slovakia.
He was originally drafted in the first round, 16th overall, in the 2000 NHL Entry Draft by the Montreal Canadiens, and he went on to play for the Canadiens, New York Rangers, and Phoenix Coyotes.
During his NHL career, Hossa was lauded for his strong offensive skills and ability to put up points. He was also a solid and dependable two-way player who could contribute on both sides of the puck.
Hossa was a fan favorite wherever he played, and his contributions to the game of hockey were recognized with his induction into the Slovak Hockey Hall of Fame in 2018.
24. Marek Svatoš
Marek Svatoš was a talented Slovak professional ice hockey winger. He was known for his hard-working attitude and impressive array of offensive skills. Svatoš began his hockey career in 1999 with the team Košice in the Slovak Extraliga.
During his time with the team, he made a name for himself with many great performances. He was especially known for his impressive speed, agility, and offensive flair. Svatoš continued to make a lasting impression with Košice throughout his career.
He was a consistent presence in the team’s lineup, often leading the team in scoring. He was also a key contributor to the team’s success in the Slovak Extraliga. Unfortunately, Svatoš’s career was cut short due to personal reasons.
He last played during the 2013–14 season with Košice, the same team where he started his career. Despite his abrupt departure from the game, Svatoš left a lasting legacy in Slovak hockey.
He will always be remembered as a talented and hard-working player who brought joy and excitement to the game.
25. Jozef Stümpel
Jozef Stümpel is a Slovak former professional ice hockey player who had an impressive career in the National Hockey League (NHL). He played for three teams during his 16-year career: the Boston Bruins, Los Angeles Kings, and Florida Panthers.
Stümpel joined the NHL in 1992 when he was drafted by the Boston Bruins. He played for the team for three seasons, before being traded to the Los Angeles Kings in 1995.
He spent five seasons with the Kings and was a key part of their successful ’97-’98 season, which saw the team reach the Stanley Cup Finals. In 2000, Stümpel was traded to the Florida Panthers, where he spent the remainder of his NHL career.
He was named an All-Star in 2003 and played a key role in the team’s run to the Stanley Cup Finals in the ’03-’04 season. In 2008, Stümpel retired from the NHL, having amassed 709 points in 883 games.
Jozef Stümpel was an impressive player in the NHL, and his contributions to the Boston Bruins, Los Angeles Kings, and Florida Panthers will not be forgotten. He had a successful career in the NHL and is a reminder of what is possible when a person is dedicated to their craft.
26. Erik Černák
Erik Černák is a Slovak professional ice hockey defenceman who currently plays for the Tampa Bay Lightning of the National Hockey League. He was selected in the second round, 43rd overall, in the 2015 NHL Entry Draft by the Los Angeles Kings.
Černák has achieved a tremendous accomplishment by winning back-to-back Stanley Cup championships with the Lightning in 2020 and 2021. This has been an incredible feat for the Slovakian defenceman, as he has enjoyed a successful career in the NHL.
Throughout his career, Černák has been an important part of the Lightning’s lineup and has been a key contributor to their defensive core.
He has been praised for his ability to read the game and make smart decisions, as well as his physicality and willingness to play his part in the team’s success.
The Lightning have been a dominant force in the NHL over the past few seasons and it is clear that Černák has been a major factor in their success.
His two Stanley Cup championships are a testament to his hard work and dedication, which has helped the Lightning become one of the most successful teams in the league.
27. Samuel Kňažko
Samuel Kňažko is a professional ice hockey player from Slovakia. He is currently playing for the Cleveland Monsters, an American Hockey League team that is affiliated with the Columbus Blue Jackets of the National Hockey League.
Kňažko is a defenceman, which means he is responsible for defending the goal of his team and preventing the opposing team from scoring. His role is to help his team win games by stopping the opposing team from scoring.
He also helps to create offensive opportunities for his team by making plays and getting the puck up the ice. Kňažko is a highly valued prospect by the Blue Jackets, and he often plays for the Monsters to gain experience and hone his skills before joining the NHL.
He has the potential to be a great player and help his team to win games.
28. Richard Lintner
Richard Lintner is a highly accomplished ice hockey player who hails from Slovakia. He was a professional defenceman who had a long career in the National Hockey League (NHL), with stints for the Nashville Predators, New York Rangers and the Pittsburgh Penguins.
His last team was HC Dinamo Minsk of the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL). Lintner was a very successful player, especially during his time with the Rangers, where he was part of the team that made it to the Eastern Conference Finals in 2008.
He was known for his great defensive skills and his ability to move the puck up the ice with speed and precision. In addition to his playing career, Lintner is now a television presenter.
He is a much respected figure in the hockey community and his contributions to the game are well-known and appreciated by fans and players alike.
29. Tomáš Surový
Tomáš Surový is a Slovakian hockey player who used to play professionally in the left winger position. He was most recently a part of Slovan Bratislava, a team in the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL).
Surový has considerable experience in the sport, having played in the Slovakian Extraliga for a number of teams, including HC Slovan Bratislava and HK Dukla Trenčín. He was also the captain of the Slovakian national team for a number of years.
He has earned many accolades in his career, including being named the best Slovakian player in the 2011-12 season.
Despite his retirement from professional play, Surový remains an important influence in the hockey world, serving as a coach for his former team, Slovan Bratislava, and helping to develop young talent.
30. Adam Ružička
Adam Ružička is a Slovak professional ice hockey player who currently plays for the Calgary Flames in the National Hockey League (NHL). Growing up in Slovakia, Ružička had a passion for the sport from a young age and showed a lot of potential.
To help develop his skills, he attended several hockey schools in Slovakia to hone his skills and learn from the best. Eventually, his hard work paid off and he was selected to the HC Pardubice U20 team, a prestigious youth ice hockey team in the Czech Republic.
This was a major milestone in his career, as it gave him the opportunity to play at a higher level and gain more exposure. From there, Ružička’s career continued to grow and he eventually made it to the NHL, where he currently plays for the Calgary Flames.
31. Zdeno Cíger
Zdeno Cíger is an accomplished former professional hockey player and current hockey coach. Born and raised in Slovakia, Cíger achieved a great deal of success in his professional hockey career.
He played for four different teams in the National Hockey League (NHL): the New Jersey Devils, Edmonton Oilers, New York Rangers, and Tampa Bay Lightning. Cíger was drafted 54th overall by the Devils in the 1988 NHL Entry Draft, making him their third choice.
Cíger’s impressive career in the NHL included stints with the Devils, Oilers, Rangers, and Lightning. He played for the Devils from 1988 to 1995, and during his time with the team, he was considered one of the most reliable defensemen in the league.
After the Devils, Cíger moved on to the Oilers, where he spent two seasons. During his time in Edmonton, Cíger made a lasting impression on the team, helping them reach the Stanley Cup Finals in 1997.
After the Oilers, Cíger signed with the Rangers in 1998 and played with them for two seasons, before signing with the Lightning in 2000. With the Lightning, Cíger helped the team reach the Stanley Cup Finals in 2004.
After his successful career in the NHL, Cíger decided to retire and become a hockey coach. He currently coaches the Slovak national hockey team. Zdeno Cíger is a great example of a professional athlete who was able to extend his career by adapting to different teams.
His successful career in the NHL is a testament to his hard work and dedication to the sport of hockey.
32. Richard Zedník
Richard Zedník is a notable name in the world of professional ice hockey. He is a Slovak former professional ice hockey winger who had a long and successful career in the National Hockey League, spanning 15 years.
His first team was the Washington Capitals, where he was part of the team for five years. He then moved on to play for the Montreal Canadiens for four years.
Following that, he joined the New York Islanders for two seasons before signing with the Florida Panthers, where he stayed for the remainder of his career. During his 15-year career in the NHL, Richard Zedník made a name for himself as a reliable and hardworking player.
He was known for his tenacity and work ethic, which made him a highly sought-after player. His impressive career in the NHL earned him numerous accolades, including being nominated for the Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy in 2008.
Richard Zedník’s impressive career in the NHL is a testament to his hard work and dedication.
33. Róbert Petrovický
Róbert Petrovický is a Slovak former professional ice hockey right winger. He was a well-traveled player, having played for several teams across a long career. Petrovický began his career in the NHL, playing for the Hartford Whalers, Dallas Stars, St.
Louis Blues, Tampa Bay Lightning, and the New York Islanders. Following his time in the NHL, Petrovický moved to the Kontinental Hockey League, where he played for Dinamo Riga in the 2009/2010 season.
His experience in the NHL and the KHL demonstrate both the breadth of his career and his willingness to play hockey on a global scale.
34. Róbert Švehla
Róbert Švehla was a Slovak professional ice hockey defenceman who played in the NHL from 1995 to 2003. He started his career with the Florida Panthers in 1995 and stayed with them until 1998.
After that, he moved to the Toronto Maple Leafs, where he played until his retirement in 2003. During his nine-season career in the NHL, Švehla was known for his strong defensive play and his offensive skill.
He was an integral part of the Panthers’ success in the mid-to-late 1990s and was a key player for the Maple Leafs during his five-year tenure. Švehla was a two-time All-Star and won the NHL Plus-minus Award in 1999.
After retiring from the NHL, Švehla returned to his native Slovakia and has since become a successful businessman. He is widely considered one of the best Slovak defencemen to have ever played in the NHL.
35. Martin Cibák
Martin Cibák is a name that is well-known in the world of ice hockey.
He is a Slovak former professional ice hockey player who has made a name for himself in the sport. Cibák has had a long and successful career that has seen him playing for various clubs and national teams throughout his career.
He has played in the NHL for the Ottawa Senators, New York Rangers, San Jose Sharks, and the Florida Panthers.
He has also represented Slovakia in international competitions such as the World Championships and the Olympic Games. Cibák has been a regular member of the Slovak national team since the mid-1990s and has been a part of the team since the 1998 Olympic Games.
He was a part of the Slovak team that won the gold medal at the 2002 Winter Olympics. He is remembered as one of the best defensemen in the world and is fondly remembered by his former teammates and fans alike.
Cibák is also remembered as being a dedicated and passionate player who always put his team first. Martin Cibák’s legacy will live on for many years to come. He is an example to all aspiring hockey players and has left an indelible mark on the sport.
36. Ivan Majeský
Ivan Majeský is a Slovak former ice hockey defenceman. He is a retired professional ice hockey player who made an impact in Slovakian hockey during his career.
He played for several different teams in Slovakia and abroad, including HC Slovan Bratislava, the Colorado Avalanche, and HC Sparta Praha. Majeský was born in Slovakia and began playing organized hockey at a young age.
He was selected by HC Slovan Bratislava in the 1998 draft and went on to become one of the most decorated Slovakian hockey players of all time. Majeský was known for his defensive play and for his ability to score goals.
He was a three-time Slovakian Player of the Year and won the Slovakian Championship in 2008. Majeský is considered to be one of the best Slovakian ice hockey defencemen in history, and his legacy lives on in Slovakian hockey today.
37. Ronald Petrovický
Ronald Petrovický is a retired Slovak ice hockey right winger. He had a successful career playing in both Europe and North America, appearing in the National Hockey League and representing his country in international play.
During his time in Europe, Petrovický spent time playing in Slovakia, the Czech Republic, and Russia. He was known for his strong work ethic and his commitment to the game, which earned him recognition as one of the best players in the region.
In 2003, Petrovický made the jump to the North American hockey leagues, signing with the Dallas Stars. He spent three seasons with the Stars, recording a total of 24 goals and 38 assists in 156 games. During this time, he also played for the AHL’s Iowa Stars.
Petrovický’s international career was also highly successful. He was a member of the Slovak national ice hockey team for over a decade, competing in numerous tournaments and representing his country in the World Championships and the Olympics.
He was known for his leadership and his ability to motivate his teammates to perform at their best. Overall, Ronald Petrovický had a highly successful career in both Europe and North America.
He was a respected member of the hockey community, and he was an inspiring figure for his fellow Slovak players. He will be remembered as a talented player who gave his all to the game.
38. Pavol Regenda
Pavol Regenda is an accomplished ice hockey player from Slovakia. He currently plays for the Anaheim Ducks, a team in the National Hockey League (NHL). Regenda was born in Slovakia and began his hockey career playing professionally in his home country.
In 2018, he was drafted in the fourth round of the NHL Draft by the Ducks. Since then, he has gone on to become one of the team’s most reliable players. Regenda is a very versatile player, capable of playing both defense and forward.
His skill and dedication have been instrumental in the team’s success in recent years. He is a key member of the Ducks roster and is expected to have a major impact in the NHL for many years to come.
39. Marek Hrivík
Marek Hrivík is a professional ice hockey player hailing from Slovakia. He is currently playing for Leksands IF, which is a member of the Swedish Hockey League.
Hrivík has been playing professionally since 2011 when he made his debut with team Dukla Trenčín of the Slovak Extraliga. Since then, he has gone on to play for teams such as the Connecticut Whale, Hartford Wolf Pack, and the Grand Rapids Griffins of the American Hockey League.
He also spent time playing for HC Slovan Bratislava of the Kontinental Hockey League. Hrivík is a versatile player who is able to contribute in several different areas. He is a strong skater and a powerful shooter, and he has shown a knack for finding the back of the net.
He also has the ability to make strong defensive plays and has the hockey IQ to read the game and anticipate plays. At just 28 years of age, Hrivík is still in the prime of his career and is looking to make an impact wherever he goes.
He has already shown that he can be a valuable asset to any team, and it will be interesting to see how he progresses with Leksands IF in the Swedish Hockey League.
40. Tomáš Jurčo
Tomáš Jurčo is an accomplished professional ice hockey player from Slovakia. He plays right wing, which is a position in the game of hockey where the player is expected to be an offensive presence and help score goals.
Currently, he is an unrestricted free agent, meaning he is not signed to any team and is free to sign with any team that wishes to have him. Most recently, Jurčo was playing for Kunlun Red Star in the Kontinental Hockey League.
The Kontinental Hockey League is a professional ice hockey league that is based in Europe and Asia. Jurčo has proven himself to be a capable player and is sure to be a valuable asset to any team that he signs with.
41. Martin Marinčin
Martin Marinčin is a hockey player from Slovakia. He currently plays in the Czech Extraliga, a professional hockey league based in the Czech Republic, for HC Oceláři Třinec.
Martin was selected in the 2010 NHL Entry Draft, an annual event held by the National Hockey League (NHL), by the Edmonton Oilers in the second round, 46th overall. This makes him one of the few Slovak players to ever be chosen in the NHL Entry Draft.
Martin has since made a name for himself in the Czech Extraliga, developing into one of the league’s top defencemen. He is now considered one of the best Slovak hockey players in the world.
42. Peter Cehlárik
Peter Cehlárik is a professional ice hockey player from Slovakia. He currently plays for Leksands IF in Sweden’s Hockey League. He was drafted by the Boston Bruins of the National Hockey League (NHL) in the 3rd round of the 2013 NHL Entry Draft.
Cehlárik is a talented player and has been playing professional hockey since 2012. He has represented his country at the World Junior Championships and the World Championships.
He is also an alternate captain for Leksands IF and has been a key contributor to the team’s success in recent years. Cehlárik is a versatile player who can play both center and wing. His ability to move the puck and make plays make him a valuable asset to any team.
43. Ľubomír Kolník
Ľubomír Kolník is a Slovak former professional ice hockey player. He was born in Brezno, Slovakia and played professionally from 1997 to 2018. Kolník played in the Slovak Extraliga, American Hockey League, and NHL.
He also represented Slovakia in several international tournaments, including the Olympics and World Championships. Kolník was known for his strong defensive play, physicality, and dependability.
He was also an adept goal scorer and playmaker, finishing with an impressive career total of 295 points. His greatest accomplishment was winning gold with the Slovak national team at the 2002 World Championships.
After his retirement in 2018, Ľubomír Kolník was inducted into the Slovak Hockey Hall of Fame. He is remembered by fans and his peers as one of the best Slovak players of all time.
44. Igor Liba
Igor Liba is a former professional ice hockey player who hails from Slovakia. During the 1988-89 season, he played a total of 37 games in the National Hockey League (NHL) for the New York Rangers and Los Angeles Kings.
After his brief stint in the NHL, he returned to play in the Czechoslovak Extraliga and other European leagues. His professional career, which spanned from 1979 to 2003, included stints in some of the top European leagues.
During his long and distinguished career, Igor Liba was known for his skillful and creative play. He was an intelligent puck handler and had the ability to create scoring opportunities for his team.
His longevity in the game is a testament to his skill and dedication as a professional hockey player.
45. Branislav Mezei
Branislav Mezei is a Slovak professional ice hockey player who plays as a defenseman. He is currently signed to HK Nitra of the Slovak Extraliga, which is the top-tier ice hockey league in Slovakia.
Mezei has also previously played in the National Hockey League (NHL), which is the premier professional ice hockey league in the world. He has featured for the New York Islanders and Florida Panthers in the NHL, with his most recent stint being with the Florida Panthers.
Mezei is a respected defenseman in the Slovak Extraliga and is known for his hard-nosed defensive play and ability to effectively shut down opposing players. His leadership and experience are also highly valued, making him an invaluable asset to his team.
46. Marko Daňo
Marko Daňo is a professional ice hockey player from Slovakia. He was born in Austria but has been playing for the Slovak national team since a young age. Daňo currently plays in the Czech Extraliga for HC Oceláři Třinec.
In 2013, he was drafted by the Columbus Blue Jackets in the first round, 27th overall at the NHL Entry Draft. This marked his entry into the NHL, where he made his debut in 2014.
Since then, he has played for multiple teams within the league and is now playing in the Czech Extraliga. Daňo has had a successful career so far, and is set to continue his success in the future.
47. Juraj Kolník
Juraj Kolník is a former professional ice hockey player from Slovakia. He is well-known for his time in the National Hockey League (NHL), where he played for both the New York Islanders and the Florida Panthers.
During his tenure in the NHL, Kolník appeared in a total of 176 games. Currently, Kolník is retired from professional hockey, but he is still active in the sport. He is currently playing for the Jonquière Marquis of the Ligue Nord-Américaine de Hockey (LNAH).
This is a semi-professional hockey league based in Canada and is known for being an excellent training ground for aspiring professional players. Kolník is an experienced player and has played in the NHL for eight seasons.
He has also been a part of the Slovakian national team, and he has represented them in several international tournaments. Although he is now retired from professional hockey, Kolník is still actively involved in the sport.
He is constantly working to improve his game and help his team win. He is a respected player in the hockey community, and his experience and skill have been an invaluable asset to the Jonquière Marquis.
Conclusion
There are a number of exceptional ice hockey players to be found in Slovakia. These players have the potential to become some of the best in the world, and some of them have already achieved great success in the sport.
Whether it is Zdeno Chara, Peter Bondra or Marian Hossa, there is no doubt that Slovakia is home to some of the world’s top ice hockey players.
