Knazko agreed to terms on a two-year contract with Czech club HC Vitkovice on Wednesday.
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 Blue 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.
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Samuel Knazko: Doesn't receive qualifying offer
Rotowire
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.
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.
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Blue Jackets' Samuel Knazko: Set to play for Slovakia at Worlds
Rotowire
Knazko will represent Slovakia at the 2025 IIHF World Championship.
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.
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