MILAN — Juraj Slafkovsky has become the driving force for Slovakia at the Olympic men’s hockey tournament, showing how far he has come since his debut as a teenager four years ago. The 21-year-old Montreal Canadiens forward is embracing a central role in his second Olympics and leading a team that topped Group B with six points (2-0-1-0) to move directly into Wednesday’s quarterfinals. Slovakia will face the winner of the Germany–France qualification game.
Slafkovsky’s Impressive Performance at the Olympics
The No. 1 pick in the 2022 NHL Draft is producing at a blistering pace. He has three goals and three assists in three games at these Games, bringing his career Olympic total to 10 goals in 10 contests. His first Olympic run at age 17 in Beijing yielded seven goals in seven games and helped Slovakia capture bronze. Unlike 2022, this tournament features NHL players, making his current surge even more notable.
Those around the national team say Slafkovsky’s game and presence have matured. Coaches and staff describe him as a player who thrives under pressure, has grown into a team leader, and consistently sets the tone for Slovakia. They credit his development in Montreal—where the demands are high—with helping him evolve on and off the ice.
Slafkovsky’s NHL season reflects that growth. He has 45 points (21 goals, 24 assists) in 57 games for the Canadiens and anchors a young core that includes Nick Suzuki (26), Cole Caufield (25), Ivan Demidov (20), and defenseman Lane Hutson (22). Montreal is 32-17-8 and in the playoff race after ending a three-year postseason drought last season.
For Slovakia, Slafkovsky’s rapid rise places him alongside some of the nation’s greats. Marian Hossa holds the Slovak Olympic goals record with 14 in 19 games, followed by Miroslav Satan with 10 in 22. Marian Gaborik (seven in 13) and Pavol Demitra (six in 15) are also among the all-time leaders. With 10 in 10, Slafkovsky has already matched Satan’s total in far fewer games and is closing in on Hossa’s mark.
The knockout rounds now begin, and Slovakia will lean on its emerging star as the stakes rise. Slafkovsky’s journey from a promising teenager to a key player on the international stage showcases his talent and dedication, making him a player to watch in the upcoming matches.