Šimon Nemec: Rising Slovak Star in the NHL

Šimon Nemec, a 22-year-old Slovak professional ice hockey player, is making a significant impact as a defenceman for the New Jersey Devils of the National Hockey League (NHL). Drafted second overall by the Devils in the 2022 NHL entry draft, Nemec represents a new generation of Slovak hockey talent and has already achieved international success.

Early Career and Draft

Born on February 15, 2004, in Liptovský Mikuláš, Slovakia, Nemec began his hockey journey with MHk 32 Liptovský Mikuláš before joining HK Nitra. He debuted in the Tipos Extraliga, Slovakia’s top hockey league, at the age of 15 in the 2019-20 season, splitting his time between the Extraliga, Slovak 2. Liga, and the Slovak national junior team. Source

Despite being selected fourth overall by the Cape Breton Eagles in the 2021 Canadian Hockey League (CHL) import draft, Nemec chose to continue his development in Slovakia. His performance in the 2021-22 Slovak Extraliga season, where he recorded 26 points in 39 games, further solidified his potential. Source

NHL Career with the New Jersey Devils

Nemec was chosen second overall by the New Jersey Devils in the 2022 NHL draft, marking a historic moment as the second consecutive Slovak player selected so high and the highest-drafted Slovaks of all time. Source Source

In a recent game against the Buffalo Sabres on February 26, 2026, Nemec played a team-high 22:23 minutes, despite the Devils losing 1-2 at home. He recorded one shot on goal, one hit, and one blocked shot, earning a plus point. Source The Devils have struggled recently, with a record of four losses in a row and six in their last seven games, currently holding second-to-last place in the Eastern Conference standings.

International Success

Nemec has also excelled on the international stage, winning a bronze medal with the Slovak national team at the 2022 Winter Olympics – Slovakia’s first-ever Olympic medal in ice hockey. Source

Recent NHL Results (February 26, 2026)

• New Jersey Devils vs. Buffalo Sabres: 1-2
• Washington Capitals vs. Philadelphia Flyers: 3-1
• Tampa Bay Lightning vs. Toronto Maple Leafs: 4-2
• Dallas Stars vs. Seattle Kraken: 4-1
• Utah Mammoth vs. Colorado Avalanche: 2-4
• Los Angeles Kings vs. Vegas Golden Knights: 4-6
• Vancouver Canucks vs. Winnipeg Jets: 2-3 (OT)
• Anaheim Ducks vs. Edmonton Oilers: 6-5

Other notable performances on February 26, 2026, included Erik Černák of the Tampa Bay Lightning and Martin Fehérváry of the Washington Capitals, whose teams secured wins against Toronto and Philadelphia, respectively. Source

Looking Ahead

Šimon Nemec continues to develop as a key player for the New Jersey Devils and a prominent figure in Slovak hockey. His dedication and skill promise a bright future in the NHL.