Slovak Defenseman Šimon Nemec Scores 10th Goal of the Season

Nemec's milestone performance comes in Devils' loss, while Fehérváry helps Capitals end Sabres' win streak

Mar. 13, 2026 at 10:09am

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The NHL saw several notable performances from Slovak players on March 13, 2026. Šimon Nemec of the New Jersey Devils scored his 10th goal of the season, becoming the first Slovak defenseman since Zdeno Chára in 2016/17 to reach double-digit goals. Meanwhile, Martin Fehérváry contributed to the Washington Capitals' 2-1 victory over the Buffalo Sabres, ending the Sabres' eight-game winning streak.

Why it matters

Nemec's goal-scoring milestone is a significant achievement for a Slovak defenseman, as it has been nearly a decade since a player from Slovakia has accomplished this feat at the NHL level. His performance highlights the growing talent and impact of Slovak players in the league. The Capitals' win over the Sabres also carries weight, as it snaps a hot streak for one of the Eastern Conference's top teams.

The details

Nemec scored his 10th goal of the season in the 22nd minute of the Devils' 4-5 loss to the Calgary Flames. The goal came on the power play after a setup by teammate Luke Hughes. Fehérváry played a key role in the Capitals' 2-1 victory over the Sabres, logging nearly 20 minutes of ice time and recording a shot on goal, a body check, and a blocked shot.

  • Nemec scored his 10th goal of the season in the 22nd minute of the Devils' game against the Flames on March 13, 2026.
  • The Capitals defeated the Sabres 2-1 on March 13, 2026, ending Buffalo's eight-game winning streak.

The players

Šimon Nemec

A 22-year-old Slovak defenseman playing for the New Jersey Devils. He is the first Slovak blueliner since Zdeno Chára in 2016/17 to reach double-digit goals in a season.

Martin Fehérváry

A Slovak defenseman playing for the Washington Capitals. He contributed to the Capitals' 2-1 victory over the Buffalo Sabres, which ended the Sabres' eight-game winning streak.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

This case highlights the continued growth and impact of Slovak players in the NHL, with Nemec and Fehérváry both making significant contributions for their respective teams. Nemec's milestone goal-scoring performance is a testament to the rising talent from Slovakia, while Fehérváry's role in the Capitals' victory underscores the versatility and defensive prowess of Slovak defensemen in the league.