"Signed as a free agent just prior to the start of training camp last year, Hnilicka came from nowhere to win the Thrashers' backup goaltending job. During the regular season, the six-foot, 180-pound Czech backstop was incredibly inconsistent. On a positive note, Hnilicka recorded the only two shutouts the Thrashers had last season and led the team with 12 victories. By the end of the campaign, however, Atlanta was still looking for a No. 1 backstop. While Hnilicka aspires to do more, his NHL fate is sealed as a perennial backup. (The Sports Forecaster 2001-02, p. 117)

"Hnilicka has had few collapses this season and shows the potential to be a solid half of a goaltending tandem. He still is prone to occasionally giving up the soft goa, but generally has shown superior movement in the crease area to Damian Rhodes." (The Hockey News, November 30, 2001)

"The Czech netminder established himself as a legitimate starter in 2001-02, appearing in 60 games and giving the Thrashers a building block in goal. Despite playing behind the league's worst team, Hnilicka showed flashes of brilliance and generally kept his team in most games. Known for his spectacular saves and improvisational ability between the pipes, Hnilicka was far more consistent last season. The Thrashers are confident they can win with the five-year pro in goal. Hnilicka has waited a long time for a No. 1 job opening and appears ready to seize the moment. (The Sports Forecaster 2002-03, p. 115)

• Selected by New York Islanders in fourth round (fourth Islanders pick, 70th overall) of NHL entry draft, June 22, 1991.
• Signed as free agent with New York Rangers, July 22, 1999.
• Signed as free agent with Atlanta Thrashers, July 28, 2000.
• Traded by Thrashers to Los Angeles Kings for future considerations, September 15, 2003.
• Signed as free agent (three years) with HC Liberec (Czech Extraleague), May 18, 2004.

• Shared (with Jean-Francois Labbe) Harry "Hap" Holmes Memorial Award (AHL), 1999-2000.
• Member of bronze medal-winning Czech Republic Olympic Team, February 25, 2006.
• Member of silver medal-winning Czech Republic, 2006 IIHF World Championships, May 21, 2006.

• Suffered right knee sprain, February 20, 2004.