Nick Bonino Returns to the NHL

Two-time Stanley Cup champion, who joined our team last November, is returning to the NHL. He’s embarking on a new career path as an assistant coach with the Pittsburgh Penguins, the team with which he won the NHL championship twice as a player.

Nick played 22 games in the green-and-white jersey, scoring 17 points, but his impact goes far beyond the statistics. In addition to his obvious hockey expertise, he proved to be an exceptional personality, a leader, and a mentor to younger teammates. Nick had extended his contract with HK Olimpija Ljubljana for the 2025/26 season and was looking forward to returning to Ljubljana. However, he recently received an offer from Pittsburgh to become an assistant coach — a testament to his stature and the respect he commands across the Atlantic.

It was a tough decision, but the club fully understands and supports this major step in his career. We recognize that such an opportunity comes only once in a lifetime. The fact that he’s taken on a coaching challenge at the highest level of hockey is a natural progression for a top-level athlete who deeply understands the game, knows how to bring a team together, and leads by example. At HK Olimpija Ljubljana, we sincerely congratulate Nick and wholeheartedly wish him great success in his new role. We are proud he was part of our team, that he recognized the vision and energy of the project we are building at HK Olimpija with a clear goal: to become the leading hockey organization in the region.

Nick Bonino:
“I’ve been given a unique opportunity to become an assistant coach with the Pittsburgh Penguins, and so I’m retiring from professional hockey. This was not an easy decision, as my family and I truly enjoyed our time in Ljubljana. I want to thank the fans for their incredibly warm welcome and support throughout the season. One moment that really stood out for me was when we won the national championship with my teammates and celebrated it with the fans. The club is writing a remarkable story, and Olimpija has a bright future, which I will gladly continue to follow.”

Anže Ulčar, General Manager of HK Olimpija:
“Nick’s call certainly surprised me and triggered mixed emotions. Losing a player of his caliber — with all his on-ice quality, NHL experience, and above all, his outstanding character — is not easy. On the other hand, I understand and respect his decision, which wasn’t easy for him either. Such a call doesn’t come often, and Nick, who has strong coaching ambitions, simply had to accept it. We wish him all the best on his next journey. Nick will remain our ambassador and continue to support the club with his reputation and knowledge.”