In the world of professional hockey, it’s rare to find a player who breaks the mold—someone who isn’t afraid to show his true colors both on and off the ice.

Juraj Slafkovsky, the rising star of the Montreal Canadiens, has always stood out for his authenticity and playful personality, earning him admiration from fans and teammates alike.

But while his genuine nature has made him a fan favorite in Montreal, it has also sparked controversy and criticism back in his native Slovakia.

Recently, Slafkovsky has found himself at the center of a surprising media storm that has nothing to do with his performance on the ice.

Instead, it’s his bold decision to refuse interviews with certain reporters that has set tongues wagging and ignited heated debates among journalists and fans.

Why would a young player, fresh off being named Slovakia’s Player of the Year, choose to limit his interactions with the press? What really happened behind the scenes to provoke such a strong reaction from the Slovak media?

As the story unfolds, the details remain shrouded in mystery, leaving many to wonder if this controversy will follow Slafkovsky back to Montreal—or if it’s simply a sign of a maturing player learning to navigate the pressures of fame.

Apr 14, 2025; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Montreal Canadiens left wing Juraj Slafkovsky (20) looks on against the Chicago Blackhawks in the third period at Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

Photo credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

We can absolutely never fault Juraj Slafkovsky for always giving the same canned answers or for not showing his personality.

That’s something you can quickly and easily notice, especially in season two of the series on the Montreal Canadiens’ rebuild (on Crave).

“Juraj Slafkovsky is always genuinely himself (and that’s a good thing).

In a league that consists of boring hockey players who don’t show much personality, he stands out with his goofy, fun-loving personality.” – HabsOnReddit

That said, it doesn’t always sit well with everyone, as David Pastrnak says Juraj Slafkovsky lacks humility.

Slafkovsky has already been involved in some controversies in Slovakia, and he’s often been criticized by the media there, particularly because of his comments about the Slovak Hockey Federation.

Today, the young Canadiens forward is once again caught in a small controversy back home-this time because he refuses to speak with certain journalists.

Juraj Slafkovsky Criticized Again in Slovakia, This Time for Refusing to Speak to Certain Media

Slafkovsky, who has previously stated that the media in Slovakia can be toxic, made his choice.

“According to Slovak outlet SportAktuality, Slaf chooses what type of media he wants to deal with.

He chose to speak with television media rather than online outlets.

We know Slafkovsky was recently named Player of the Year in Slovakia. Following that honor, he decided to give interviews only to television media, which was very poorly received.” – DLC

In short, Slafkovsky flat-out refused to speak to certain media outlets-mainly non-television ones.

It’s really unfortunate that Slafkovsky’s summer in Slovakia seems to have been overshadowed by his “battle” with the local media. You get the sense that once he returns to Montreal, dealing with journalists here won’t be a problem for him at all.

Reporters here seem much calmer and healthier, at least for him, compared to those in Slovakia.

That’s a good thing!