"I'm just trying to help him as much as I can. And if he wants to take the big step to the professional hockey this year, I know what it takes, and I just try to help him. Because sometimes he likes to maybe, on drills, take his time a little slower, and I'm just trying to remind him it's got to be way faster, way harder. You've got to - it starts from practice from summer."
"I mean, it's just special, like every day special. Seeing him, seeing each other beside, and wearing the Capitals jersey and being in the National Hockey League. We don't take it for granted every day, and we're just so proud to be here and just enjoy that time together. He also has his goals."
Aliaksei and Ilya Protas, large Belarusian brothers, are among 37 forwards at Washington Capitals training camp. Ilya was drafted in the third round of the 2024 NHL Draft and could begin his professional career this season with the Capitals or the Hershey Bears. Aliaksei described pushing his younger brother through faster, harder summer practices to prepare him for the pro level. Ilya arrived to camp an inch taller and 17 pounds heavier after a dominant Windsor Spitfires season that produced 124 points in 61 games. Fans hope the brothers will play together, while Aliaksei emphasizes enjoying the moment together.
Read at RMNB
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