Marek Sklenicka, a 17-year-old goaltender from Litvinov, Czechia, was selected by the Philadelphia Flyers in the fourth round, 120th overall, in the 2026 NHL Draft — the second goaltender the Flyers took in this draft. The 6-foot-3, 181-pound netminder was ranked 6th among North American goaltenders by NHL Central Scouting heading into draft weekend.
Sklenicka made the jump from Czech junior hockey to North America in 2025-26, his first season in the WHL with the Seattle Thunderbirds. Scouts praise his athleticism, quick edgework, and relentless competitiveness, often making himself difficult to score on through sheer effort even when his technique and positioning are still developing. He also helped Czechia win a U18 World Championship bronze medal, starting the bronze-medal game and turning aside 21 of 22 shots.
Sklenicka played his draft season with Seattle, going 20-12-6 with a 3.21 GAA, a .902 save percentage, and three shutouts in 42 games, continuing his development as a goaltender scouts see needing more physical and technical refinement before he’s NHL-ready.
Stats and info via EliteProspects.com and other media reporting
People are asking these questions about Marek Sklenicka
What team drafted Marek Sklenicka? Marek Sklenicka was selected by the Philadelphia Flyers in the fourth round, 120th overall, in the 2026 NHL Draft.
What team did Marek Sklenicka play for before the draft? He played for the Seattle Thunderbirds in the WHL, his first season in North America after coming up through BK Mladá Boleslav in Czechia.
How was Marek Sklenicka ranked heading into the draft? NHL Central Scouting ranked him 6th among North American goaltenders in the 2026 class.
What’s Marek Sklenicka’s playing style? Scouts describe him as an athletic, hard-working goaltender with quick lateral movement and a strong motor, though his technique and positioning are still developing.
How tall is Marek Sklenicka? He stands 6-foot-3 and weighs 181 pounds, and catches left-handed.
