Juraj Slafkovsky’s breakout season in Montreal propels the former first-overall pick into elite company, signaling his evolution from a raw prospect into a premier international power forward.
Montreal Canadiens forward Juraj Slafkovsky has made The Hockey News’ Top 100 list for the first time, coming in at No. 94.
Which is kind of a big step for him, even if it’s just a ranking on paper. He didn't have an overall good year last season. But this year, he did. He had 30 goals and 43 assists for 73 points and showing why the Canadiens took him first overall.
He actually lands just ahead of Matthew Knies (#96) and Alex Tuch (#97) here, which is interesting when you look at the names around him.
In Montreal, it feels like this is just the start of what's to come. Playing with Nick Suzuki has helped that. He's showing on a nightly basis that he belongs on the top line. With shifts where he essentially takes over the whole play using his power-forward frame, and his high-hockey IQ.
For the international audience, Slafkovsky’s rise is a significant milestone. The Czechia-born winger has quickly become one of the premier European talents to watch in the NHL. He has never failed to make his mark on the international stage either. Whether it be at the World Juniors, World Hockey Championships, or at the Olympics. Slafkovsky has built a reputation of showing up when he wears the Czechia sweater.
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