ARLINGTON, V.A. — For Aliaksei and Ilya Protas, every part of Washington Capitals training camp has been special, as they've been able to play on the same team for the first time together in their respective careers.
That made Monday even sweeter, as both found out they'd be suiting up together for the Capitals' preseason game against the Boston Bruins on Tuesday.
"OIh for sure, I was so happy, especially for Ilya because he was waiting for this chance," Aliaksei said, adding, "Playing together it's something we couldn't even dream of. It's gonna be fun."
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Ilya, like his older brother, was taken in the third round of this year's draft, as the Capitals traded up to get the pick to select him.
The siblings have a five-year age gap, and though both tower over 6-foot-5, they've earned the nicknames "Big Pro" (Aliaksei) and "Little Pro" (Ilya) throughout the organization.
So far, training camp has been a memorable experience for both of them, and one they've been happy to share together.
"It's for sure going to be special," Aliaksei said, adding, "When you put the NHL jersey on it's something different, we have to be proud of (it) and just take care of the chance and have fun."
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For Ilya, there are a lot of emotions to take in as Tuesday's game also marks his NHL preseason debut. He's taken some advice from his older brother, but for the most part, he's just looking to capitalize on the opprotuntiy in any way he can.
"(I'm) a little bit nervous, but excited for it," Ilya said, adding, "(Aliaksei told me) just enjoy it, work hard. That's like, really special moment for us, just have fun."
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While it'll be a memorable night for the Protas brothers, both are also focused on trying to get D.C. its first victory of the preseason and making a strong impression on the organization.
"Just wanna help the team win, play how the coaches want us to play and just be detailed and structured and everything," Aliaksei said.
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