Ilya Protas to make NHL debut for Capitals against Maple Leafs: 'I couldn't believe for a second. I was shaky for a bit. I can't wait for tomorrow.'

""It's a childhood dream come true. It's just unbelievable. I couldn't believe for a second. I was shaky for a bit. It's special, for sure. I can't wait until tomorrow.""

""I mean, it's just cool to be here. Obviously, you're thinking about it because it's your childhood dream, but you don't want to force it. You know your time is going to come, and you just got to focus on the next day, next game, next practice, and step by step.""

""I think a couple factors play in, the obvious one being the season that he's having and how well he's played of late through this last stretch, but ultimately through the entire season.""

Ilya Protas is set to make his NHL debut for the Washington Capitals, starting in the top six alongside his brother Aliaksei Protas and Tom Wilson. Protas, 19, has had a successful season with the AHL's Hershey Bears, leading rookie scoring with 62 points. Despite the pressure of limited games left in the season, he remained focused on his development. Head coach Spencer Carbery noted Protas's impressive performance and the team's need for fresh talent as reasons for his recall to the NHL.

Read at RMNB