The Windsor Spitfires knew they were getting an important player when they signed Ilya Protas last July. "He is a big body and will have an immediate impact with our hockey club." Spitfires' GM Bill Bowler said at the time.
Protas started his OHL career with an 8-game point streak potting eight goals while adding six assists. The Viciebsk, Belarus native has been an integral part of Windsor's resurgeance this season.
"It feels great," said the Washington Capitals prospect. "Always great when you can help team win and collect points with it, but this is the merit of my teammates and coaches and our great chemistry between management, coaching staff and group of players."
The 18-year old has been on a tear lately with 21 points in his last eight games which places his 4th overall in league scoring, one point behind teammate Liam Greentree. He scored his 41st of the season against Saginaw last weekend and is the OHL Player of the Week after notching 14 points in his last four games.
Protas and Greentree are on the verge of becoming the first Spitfires duo to each hit 100 points in a season since 1995 when current GM Bill Bowler (135pts) and Dave Roach (114pts) cracked the century mark.
"That's a good thing," Bowler told Powerplay Sports. "We like playing entertaining hockey for our fans and scoring goals is important. Two talented players who are equally as good on the defensive side. It's fun to watch."
Protas played in the USHL for the Des Moines Buccaneeers last season where he scored 14 goals and tallied 51 points in 61 games. He was subsequently drafted in the third round of the NHL Draft, 75th overall, by the Washington Capitals, where his older brother Aliaksei plays.
The Spitfires are on the road this weekend as they take an eastern swing through Peterborough, Kingston and Ottawa. They return home March 6th to face the Frontenacs.
"Everyone enjoys to be at the rink and around the team. Overall great environment. It could be awesome." Protas said.
Comentarios