Drafted first overall by the Tampa Bay Lightning in the 1992 NHL entry draft from ZPS Zlín, Hamrlík played as a defenceman who typically took on an offensive role for his team, especially on the powerplay. His offensive prowess earned him the role of the "powerplay quarterback," as he often led the offense in a powerplay. After his draft, Hamrlík made the immediate leap to North America to play for the Lightning in the 1992–93 season. In 1995–96, he posted career-highs in goals (16), assists (49) and points (65). After five-and-a-half seasons with the organization, Hamrlík was traded to the Edmonton Oilers midway through the 1997–98 season.[1]
Hamrlík signed as an unrestricted free agent with the Calgary Flames on August 14, 2005, to a two-year, $7 million contract.[4] In 2006–07, he posted a career-high in plus-minus with +22. On July 2, 2007, again as a free agent, Hamrlík signed a four-year, $22 million contract with the Montreal Canadiens.[5]
After four productive seasons with Montreal, Hamrlík signed as a free agent on a two-year, $7 million contract with the Washington Capitals on July 1, 2011.[6] In his second season with Washington during the lockout-shortened 2012–13 season, Hamrlik was limited to just four games as a reserve defenceman before he was ultimately placed on waivers by the team on March 5, 2013.[7] He was claimed by the New York Rangers on March 6, 2013.[8]
Hamrlík announced his retirement from professional ice hockey on October 21, 2013.[9][10]
Hamrlík has an older brother, Martin Hamrlík, who was drafted by the Hartford Whalers in 1991, but never played in the NHL, and who spent the majority of his playing career in Czech Republic before retiring in 2013.[12]
Hamrlík and his wife Cynthia have two children.[13]
