The **Vegas Golden Knights** have officially signed defenseman **Viliam Kmec** to a three-year entry-level contract, as announced by General Manager **Kelly McCrimmon**. This signing follows Kmec’s participation in the team’s 2024 Development Camp held in July.
During the 2023-24 season, Kmec played for the **Prince George Cougars** in the Western Hockey League (WHL), where he had an impressive performance. He recorded **nine goals** and **25 assists**, accumulating a total of **34 points** in **58 regular-season games**, making him the second-highest scoring defenseman on his team【43†source】.
At just 20 years old, Kmec has concluded his third season in the WHL after joining the league from Slovakia in the 2021-22 season. Over his time with the Cougars, he has scored **18 goals** and **62 assists**, resulting in **80 points** across **180 games**. Additionally, he has contributed **10 points** in **27 playoff games** (source).
Kmec showcased his skills further by helping lead the Golden Knights’ rookies to an unbeaten record of **3-0-0** during the **2024 Rookie Faceoff** in Los Angeles, where he netted one goal and provided two assists in three games【43†source】 .
The native of **Košice, Slovakia**, also represented his country at the **2024 World Junior Championship**, where he recorded **four assists** in five matches. This marks Kmec’s third consecutive year participating in the World Juniors, where he previously aided Slovakia in winning a silver medal at the **2021 Hlinka Gretzky Cup**【43†source】 .
This contract not only solidifies Kmec’s future with the Golden Knights but also highlights the team’s commitment to developing young talent. His proven track record in the WHL and international play suggests that he could become a valuable asset to the Golden Knights as they continue to compete in the NHL.
For more information, you can check the full article on the Golden Knights’ official site .