Nick Bonino has joined HK Olimpija Ljubljana!

The American forward Nick Bonino is joining the Olimpija Ljubljana hockey club. His extensive experience and impressive team and individual achievements in the NHL are proof that he is an exceptional forward. This significant addition to the Olimpija Ljubljana will further strengthen the team as the promising season progresses.

Nick Bonino brings a wealth of experience from the prestigious NHL, where he played an impressive 973 games and scored over 400 points. He has played for renowned teams such as the Anaheim Ducks, where his NHL career began, the Vancouver Canucks, the Nashville Predators, the Minnesota Wild, and the Pittsburgh Penguins, with whom he won two Stanley Cups (2016 and 2017).

His role in the championship-winning Pittsburgh Penguins team was pivotal—Bonino is recognized as a versatile center and a master of both defensive and offensive play, earning him the reputation of being one of the best two-way players in the league.

Bonino has also represented Team USA in various international competitions. He won two bronze medals at the World Championships and served as team captain of the Team USA at the 2023 World Championship.

In joining Olimpija Ljubljana, Nick Bonino brings invaluable experience and leadership skills that will strengthen the team both on the ice and in the locker room. His arrival is not only a major asset for the club but also for Slovenian hockey.

With Bonino’s signing, Olimpija Ljubljana demonstrates its ambition and commitment to success on the international stage.

Representatives of HK Olimpija Ljubljana’s management shared their thoughts on this occasion:

Miha Butara, President of HK Olimpija Ljubljana:
“The arrival of a player like Nick Bonino represents a significant step forward for us. Having a player join us who has won two Stanley Cups and captained the U.S. national team is a strong confirmation that we are on the right path and a major success for the entire club. I am proud of my colleagues at the club who made this transfer happen. Thank God.”

Alexandre Lefebvre, Strategic Partner of HK Olimpija Ljubljana:
“We are thrilled to welcome Nick Bonino to Olimpija! Having such an experienced and accomplished player join our team is an incredible honor. Nick’s talent, leadership, and championship mindset will undoubtedly elevate our game and bring us closer to achieving our ultimate goal: bringing the championship to Ljubljana. Welcome to the Olimpija family, Nick—we are proud to have you on board!”

Anže Ulčar, Director of HK Olimpija Ljubljana:
“Nick’s achievements in the NHL speak volumes about his quality. However, I was most impressed by his personality. He is a dedicated hockey player with a high level of work ethic and respect. From our very first conversation, it was clear that for him, family and hockey come first. He felt that Olimpija, Ljubljana, and Slovenia as a whole are the right environment for him and his loved ones, and he quickly decided to sign the agreement. This decision is a great recognition for the club and all the individuals who work daily to elevate it to a higher level. I am very happy!”