The Slovak Ice Hockey Federation has announced the first six players named to its preliminary roster for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano Cortina, set to take place from February 6-22, 2026. This announcement, made in cooperation with the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF), the National Hockey League (NHL), the National Hockey League Players' Association (NHLPA), and the International Olympic Committee (IOC), marks a significant moment as NHL players return to the Winter Olympics for the first time since 2014.
The initial six players selected to represent Slovakia are a mix of established NHL veterans and rising stars:
- Erik Černák (Defenseman): A two-time Stanley Cup champion with the Tampa Bay Lightning (2020, 2021), the 28-year-old from Košice is a stalwart defenseman known for his physicality and shot-blocking ability. This season, Černák posted a career-high 21 points (3 goals, 18 assists) and a plus-29 rating in 76 games.
- Martin Fehérváry (Defenseman): The 25-year-old Bratislava native is coming off a career-best season with the Washington Capitals, where he recorded 25 points (5 goals, 20 assists) in 81 games and a plus-18 rating. Fehérváry also brings international experience, having represented Slovakia at the World Championships four times.
- Šimon Nemec (Defenseman): Drafted second overall by the New Jersey Devils in 2022, the 21-year-old defenseman has split time between the NHL and AHL. Nemec's offensive upside and international experience, including a bronze medal at the 2022 Beijing Olympics, make him a valuable asset.
- Martin Pospíšil (Forward): Pospisil, a forward for the Calgary Flames, was also named to the preliminary roster. He has represented Slovakia several times, including at the 2017 Under-18 World Championship and the 2019 World Junior Championship.
- Juraj Slafkovský (Forward): The Montreal Canadiens forward was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2022 NHL Draft. Slafkovský was named MVP of the 2022 Olympics. This season, the 21-year-old had a career-high 51 points (18 goals, 33 assists) in 79 games.
- Tomáš Tatar (Forward): A 14-season NHL veteran, Tatar brings a wealth of experience and leadership to the Slovakian team. The 34-year-old has represented Slovakia in the 2014 Sochi Olympics and seven World Championships, winning a silver medal in 2012.
Slovakia will compete in Group B at the 2026 Winter Olympics, alongside Finland, Sweden, and host nation Italy. The men's tournament is scheduled to take place from February 11-22, 2026, at the Milano Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena and the Milano Rho Ice Hockey Arena. Complete rosters for each team are expected to be announced in early 2026.
