Ilya ProtasF, Washington Capitals
Where to watch? Capitals Rookie Camp, McMullen Hockey Arena (Annapolis, Md.); September 13-15
Protas (6-6, 225) has progressed from an intriguing third-round pick (No. 75) in the 2024 draft to a potential NHL contributor at breakneck speed. The 20-year-old was named AHL Rookie of the Year after posting 66 points (29 goals, 37 assists) in 69 games for Hershey. Protas, who had four points (one goal, three assists) in four games with the Capitals, is seen as a third-line center who can provide scoring, matchup flexibility and a similarly imposing presence; his brother, 25 years old Aliaksey Protas (6-6, 250), has 171 points (68 goals, 103 assists) in 321 games with Washington.