Samuel Knazko - NHL News & Rumors | FOX Sports

Headed back to Europe Knazko agreed to terms on a two-year contract with Czech club HC Vitkovice on Wednesday.

Impact Knazko hasn't played in an NHL game since the 2022-23 campaign, instead featuring exclusively with AHL Cleveland over the last two seasons. Heading into the offseason, the Jackets decided against giving the 22-year-old defenseman a qualifying offer, making him an unrestricted free agent. Given his age, Knazko could certainly make a push to secure an NHL deal in the future but will have to impress during his time overseas.

JULY 16, 2025 • ROTOWIRE

Doesn't receive qualifying offer Knazko didn't receive a qualifying offer from the Blue Jackets on Monday, making him an unrestricted free agent, Mark Scheig of The Hockey Writers reports.

Impact Knazko played for AHL Cleveland during the 2024-25 season, racking up four goals, 12 assists and 14 PIM over 55 appearances. He's made just two NHL appearances during his career and will have to seek out a new deal ahead of the 2025-26 season.

JUNE 30, 2025 • ROTOWIRE

Set to play for Slovakia at Worlds Knazko will represent Slovakia at the 2025 IIHF World Championship.

Impact Knazko spent the entire 2024-25 campaign with AHL Cleveland, and he recorded four goals and 12 assists over 55 appearances. This year's World Championship will mark the third time that the 22-year-old has suited up for Slovakia at Worlds. Over his last two appearances, he recorded three assists and two PIM across 15 appearances. Knazko was a third-round pick by Columbus in 2020, but he's made just two NHL appearances for the Blue Jackets during his career.

MAY 8, 2025 • ROTOWIRE

Sent to AHL Knazko was reassigned to AHL Cleveland on Friday.

Impact Knazko suited up for his first two NHL games this week, blocking one shot. The defenseman played only 9:35 in his NHL debut versus Pittsburgh, but he saw 21:42 of ice time Friday in a 5-2 loss to Buffalo. Knazko had 21 points in 49 games with AHL Cleveland before his recall.

APRIL 15, 2023 • ROTOWIRE

Called up from AHL Knazko was summoned from AHL Cleveland on an emergency basis Wednesday.

Impact Knazko has a goal and 21 points in 49 contests with Cleveland this season. The 20-year-old was taken by the Blue Jackets with the No. 78 pick in the 2020 NHL Draft. He might draw into the lineup for his NHL debut Thursday against Pittsburgh or Friday versus Buffalo.

APRIL 12, 2023 • ROTOWIRE