After the fall of the Iron Curtain many players who were born in Trenčín or started their youth career in Dukla youth system had success in the NHL. Marián Gáborík, Marián Hossa and Zdeno Chára are the most successful players who were born in Trenčín. Gáborík was drafted 3rd overall by Minnesota Wild in the 2000 NHL Entry Draft, becoming the first signed player in the club history.
Following the fall of the Iron Curtain, many players from Trenčín or who had started their careers with Dukla youth system have achieved success in the NHL.  Marián Gáborík, Marián Hossa, and Zdeno Chára are the most notable examples.  Gáborík was drafted 3rd overall by the Minnesota Wild in the 2000 NHL Entry Draft, making him the first player signed by the team.