Slovak mainstay defenceman Ľubomír Višňovský announced his retirement from HC Slovan following a 4-0 sweep at the hands of CSKA Moscow, wrapping up a 20+ year career in both Slovakia and the NHL.

A late pick of the Los Angeles Kings in the 2000 NHL Draft, Višňovský headed west after six seasons with his hometown HC Slovan. Višňovský was named to the NHL All Rookie Team in 2001, spending the next seven seasons with the Kings, being named to his only All Star Game in 2007. He was traded to Edmonton in 2008, spending two seasons in Canada before spending a trio of seasons with both Anaheim and the New York Islanders, before returning to Bratislava for his farewell season where his career began in 1994.

Višňovský was an anchor for the emerging Slovakia team in the aftermath of their split from Czechoslovakia, first playing with the senior team at their 10th place finish at the 1996 World Championships, playing in a total of nine Worlds, four Olympics, and both the 1996 and 2004 World Cup Of Hockey. For all the tournaments played in, Višňovský only has won a trio of medals, all at the World Championships – bronze in 2003, silver in 2000, and Slovakia’s historic first-ever gold in 2002.

Višňovský won his first IHLC back in 2000 at the World Championships, only winning three more championships – the historic 2002 Gold Medal win, as well as at both the 2006 and 2010 Olympics. We wish Ľubomír and his family the very best for his retirement and the things to come!

Photo Credit: Los Angeles Kings – IIHF – HHOF – IOC