Meet the Team: Slovakia's roster for the 2025 World Juniors

Slovakia delivered a commendable performance in the 2024 World Junior Championship, finishing sixth overall. They pushed Finland to the limit in the quarterfinals, ultimately losing 4-3 in overtime. Despite the loss, the team showcased their growth and potential, highlighted by a decisive 6-2 victory over Czechia in the group stage.

As Slovakia prepares for the 2025 championship, their roster includes a highly regarded prospect. Dalibor Dvorský, a top pick in the 2023 NHL Draft, will likely serve as the team’s offensive leader, building on his experience from last year. His combination of vision, puck control, and scoring ability makes him one of the most dangerous players in the tournament.

Competing in Group B, Slovakia will face tough matchups against Sweden, Czechia, and Switzerland. Their goal for 2025 will be to break into the medal rounds and capitalize on the momentum they’ve built over the past two tournaments.

Forwards

Matúš Vojtech, RW, HK 32 Liptovský Mikuláš (Slovakia)

Matus Vojtech is a gritty forward who plays with high energy and determination. He thrives in physical battles and is known for his ability to create chaos in front of the net. This season with Liptovský Mikuláš, Vojtech has chipped in offensively with timely goals, often coming from his net-front presence. His strong defensive awareness also makes him an asset on the penalty kill, where he uses his active stick and relentless work ethic to disrupt opposing power plays. While not the flashiest player, his reliability and tenacity make him a valuable piece of Slovakia's forward group.

Tomáš Pobežal, C, HK Nitra (Slovakia), prospect eligible for the 2025 NHL Draft

Tomas Pobezal is a crafty forward who excels in creating scoring chances with his vision and puck-handling skills. Playing for Nitra this season, he has been a consistent offensive contributor, often making plays out of seemingly impossible situations. Pobežal’s quickness and ability to slip through defenders make him a constant threat in the offensive zone. He has also shown growth in his defensive game, backchecking hard and supporting his teammates. With his creativity and knack for setting up his linemates, Pobežal brings a dynamic offensive presence to the team.

Lukáš Klečka, RW, Södertälje SK J20 (J20 Nationell)

Lukas Klecka is a smooth-skating forward who combines speed with finesse. Currently playing in Sweden for Södertälje, Klečka has developed a reputation for his ability to carry the puck through the neutral zone and create opportunities off the rush. He is particularly effective on the power play, where his vision and passing ability shine. Klečka’s defensive game is steadily improving as he works to round out his two-way play. His ability to generate offence and his confidence with the puck make him a key contributor for Slovakia.

Miroslav Šatan, C, Sioux Falls Stampede (USHL), drafted by the Washington Capitals

Miroslav Šatan is a skilled forward with a high hockey IQ, following in the footsteps of his father. In the USHL with Sioux Falls, Šatan has displayed excellent playmaking ability, often finding his teammates in great scoring positions. He is also a strong skater with a deceptive shot, allowing him to be a dual threat in the offensive zone. Defensively, Šatan is reliable, using his anticipation to disrupt plays and transition the puck quickly. His leadership qualities and ability to perform in clutch moments make him a standout in this lineup.

Roman Kukumberg, LW/RW, HC Slovan Bratislava (Slovakia)

Roman Kukumberg is an experienced forward who brings a veteran presence to the team, splitting time between Slovan Bratislava and Trnava. Kukumberg excels in the faceoff circle, giving Slovakia an edge in puck possession. He also has a strong shot and the ability to score from the slot, making him a dangerous player on the power play. His experience and leadership make him an important role model for the younger players on the roster.

Andrej Párička, C, Shreveport Mudbugs (NAHL)

Andrej Paricka is a hardworking forward who combines physicality with a strong two-way game. Playing in the NAHL with Shreveport, Párička has shown his ability to grind out tough minutes and contribute on the penalty kill. He is particularly effective along the boards, where his strength and puck protection skills allow him to win battles. Offensively, he has a decent shot and can capitalize on turnovers, making him a threat on the counterattack. His versatility and willingness to do the dirty work make him a valuable depth player for Slovakia.

František Dej, C, HK Dukla Trenčín (Slovakia)

Frantisek Dej is a versatile forward who can adapt to various roles on the team. Dej’s strong skating and ability to read the game make him effective in transition, where he can create opportunities for his teammates. He is also responsible defensively, often being tasked with shutting down opposing top lines.

Adam Cedzo, RW/LW, HC Frýdek-Místek (Czechia 2)

Adam Cedzo is a dynamic offensive player with a knack for scoring big goals. Competing in the second-tier Czech league with Frýdek-Místek, he has consistently displayed his ability to finish around the net. Cedzo’s speed and agility make him a dangerous player on the rush, and he is not afraid to take on defenders one-on-one. His shot is powerful and accurate, making him a constant threat from the high slot. While his defensive play is still developing, his offensive upside is undeniable, and he brings excitement to Slovakia’s forward corps.

Ján Chovan, C, Tappara U20 (U20-SM Sarja), eligible for the 2025 NHL Draft

Jan Chovan is a skilled forward playing for Tappara in Finland, where he has gained valuable experience in a competitive league. Chovan’s hockey sense and playmaking ability stand out, as he is adept at finding open teammates and creating space in the offensive zone. His quick hands and deceptive moves make him tough to defend, especially in tight spaces. Chovan is also a strong skater, which allows him to backcheck effectively and contribute defensively.

Róbert Fedor, F, HK Dukla Michalovce (Slovakia)

Róbert Fedor is a power forward who uses his size and strength to dominate in the offensive zone. Playing for Michalovce, Fedor is particularly effective along the boards and in front of the net, where he can screen goaltenders and pounce on rebounds. Fedor’s physicality makes him a presence that opponents must account for. His blend of size and skill adds balance to Slovakia’s forward group.

Dalibor Dvorský, C/RW, Springfield Thunderbirds (AHL), drafted by the St. Louis Blues

Dalibor Dvorský is the crown jewel of this roster, widely regarded as one of the top young talents in hockey. With elite offensive instincts, Dvorský is a dual-threat player capable of scoring or setting up teammates with equal ease. His shot is NHL-calibre, and his vision allows him to orchestrate plays with precision. Playing in Sweden this season, he has consistently dominated against older competition, showcasing his maturity and skill. Dvorský’s work ethic and hockey IQ make him a complete player, and he is poised to be the leader of this Slovak team.

Tobias Tomík, C/RW, HK Dukla Trenčín (Slovakia)

Tobias Tomik, currently playing for HK Dukla Trenčín in Slovakia, is an offensively gifted centre with great skating and puck-handling abilities. His knack for both scoring and setting up plays makes him a dual threat, and his early exposure to professional-level hockey has accelerated his development. With his creativity and offensive instincts, Tomík will bring speed, skill, and playmaking to Team Slovakia, making him a key contributor in high-pressure situations.

Tobias Pitka, C, Victoria Grizzlies (BCHL)

Tobias Pitka, playing for the Victoria Grizzlies in the BCHL, is a towering centre known for his physical presence and hockey IQ. Standing at 6'4", he uses his size effectively to shield the puck and dominate in board battles. Pitka’s vision and precise passing make him a strong playmaker, while his defensive reliability adds depth to Slovakia's lineup. He will bring physicality and a strong two-way game.

Defensemen

Milan Pišoja, D, HK Trebišov (Slovakia2)

Milan Pisoja is a robust, defensively focused blueliner who excels in neutralizing top opposition threats. His physicality and long reach make him dominant in puck battles and crease-clearing situations. This season, he’s added improved puck-moving capabilities to his arsenal, bolstering Slovakia’s ability to transition quickly. While not an offensive standout, his penalty-killing skills and defensive reliability are critical. Pišoja’s leadership and experience anchor Slovakia’s defense.

Samuel Kupec, D, Blainville-Boisbriand Armada (QMJHL)

Samuel Kupec is a dynamic two-way defenseman who contributes effectively at both ends of the ice. Equipped with a powerful slap shot, he’s a valuable asset on the power play. Kupec’s strong skating and improved decision-making under pressure allow him to close gaps defensively and minimize turnovers. His occasional forays into the offensive zone add depth to Slovakia’s attack. Kupec’s balanced game and hockey intelligence make him a standout on this roster.

Jakub Chromiak, D, Kitchener Rangers (OHL)

Jakub Chromiak is an offensive-minded defenseman with elite puck-moving ability. His role as a power play quarterback for the Kitchener Rangers highlights his creativity and vision from the blue line. Chromiak’s smooth skating helps him evade forecheckers and lead breakouts, making him indispensable for Slovakia’s transition game. Though his defensive skills are a work in progress, his offensive upside is undeniable, providing excitement and playmaking to Slovakia’s blue line.

Adam Beluško, D, Brandon Wheat Kings (WHL)

Adam Belusko is a defensive stalwart with a physical edge. Known for his commitment to a shutdown role, he consistently frustrates opposing forwards with his positioning and grit. Beluško’s willingness to block shots and engage in physical play makes him a reliable option in critical situations. While his offensive contributions are limited, his steady presence and defensive reliability are key assets for Slovakia.

Peter Valent, D, Québec Remparts (QMJHL)

Peter Valent is an offensive sparkplug on the blue line, known for his ability to join the rush and act as a fourth forward. His skating and puck-handling skills shine on the power play, where he’s a constant threat. While his defensive game is still developing, Valent’s calculated risks often pay off in the form of scoring opportunities. His creativity adds an unpredictable dimension to Slovakia’s defense.

Richard Baran, D, Des Moines Buccaneers (USHL)

Richard Baran is a gritty, physical defenseman who thrives in the tough areas of the ice. His punishing hits and ability to clear the crease make him a force on the penalty kill. Offensively, he keeps it simple, ensuring safe zone exits and minimal turnovers. Baran’s physicality and no-nonsense approach bring balance and toughness to Slovakia’s defensive corps.

Maxim Štrbák, D, Michigan State University (NCAA), drafted by the Buffalo Sabres

Maxim Strbak is a polished two-way defenseman and one of Slovakia’s premier talents. Playing in the NCAA, he’s demonstrated exceptional positional awareness and decision-making under pressure. Štrbák’s heavy point shot and power play proficiency add an offensive dimension to his mature defensive game. His composure, versatility, and NHL pedigree make him a cornerstone of Slovakia’s blue line.

Luka Radivojevič, D, Muskegon Lumberjacks (USHL), top prospect for the 2025 NHL Draft

Luka Radivojevic is an emerging star known for his mobility and poise with the puck. His skating ability enables him to contribute effectively at both ends of the ice, while his offensive instincts drive his playmaking from the back end. Though still refining his defensive game, Radivojevič’s potential as a top draft prospect is undeniable. As the spotlight intensifies, he’ll aim to showcase his immense talent on the international stage.

Goalies

Michal Prádel, G, Barani Banská Bystrica U20 (Slovakia U20), 2025 NHL Draft Eligible

Michal Pradel is a towering 6'5" netminder who uses his size effectively to cover the net and challenge shooters. Despite his stature, Prádel showcases impressive agility and reflexes, making acrobatic saves look routine. Known for his calm demeanor under pressure, he often rises to the occasion in high-stakes situations, delivering clutch performances. His puck-handling skills add another layer to his game, allowing him to assist in defensive breakouts. A consistent performer in the Slovak league, Prádel’s reliability and all-around skillset position him as a frontrunner for Slovakia’s starting goaltender role.

Alan Lenďák, G, Fargo Force (USHL)

Alan Lendak brings valuable USHL experience with the Fargo Force, where he has faced strong competition and further refined his game. Known for his athleticism and sharp reflexes, Lenďák thrives in one-on-one situations and consistently delivers highlight-reel saves. His lateral movement stands out, enabling him to track cross-ice passes and react swiftly to dangerous plays. Lenďák’s puck-handling has also improved, helping his team transition out of the defensive zone under forechecking pressure. With his international experience and exposure to various playing styles, Lenďák is a strong contender for significant minutes in Slovakia’s crease.

Samuel Urban, G, Sioux City Musketeers (USHL)

Samuel Urban brings a blend of size, agility, and experience to the Slovak U20 squad. Standing at 6'1", Urban’s solid frame and exceptional athleticism make him a steady presence in net. He excels in rebound control and reading the play, often positioning himself to make critical secondary saves. Having competed in the previous World Juniors, Urban’s international experience adds to his poise and confidence in high-pressure games. His time with the Sioux City Musketeers has honed his skills further, making him a reliable option for Slovakia in key moments.