Samuel Kňažko

Samuel Kňažko is a Slovak professional ice hockey defenceman who is currently playing for HC Vítkovice in the Czech Extraliga.

Playing career

Kňažko was selected 78th overall by the Blue Jackets in the 2020 NHL Entry Draft.
After his selection by the Blue Jackets, Kňažko was signed to a three-year, entry-level contract with Blue Jackets on June 9, 2021.
Following three seasons within the Blue Jackets organization, Kňažko left as a free agent and returned to Europe in agreeing to a two-year contract with Czech club, HC Vítkovice of the ELH, on 16 July 2025.

International play

Kňažko served as Slovakia's captain in the 2021 and 2022 editions of the IIHF World Junior Championship.
He was selected to make his full IIHF international debut, participating for Slovakia in the 2021 IIHF World Championship.
Kňažko was selected for the 2022 Olympics in Beijing.