WASHINGTON (7News) — It’s early into the NHL offseason, but the Washington Capitals franchise is hard at work this week at MedStar Capitals Iceplex.

The team is in the heart of its annual player development camp, designed specifically for the franchise’s up-and-coming stars. The camp involves both on- and off-ice workouts to help prospects improve their games and learn more about the organization.

Among the top prospects in attendance is left winger Ilya Protas, the younger brother of Washington forward Aliaksei Protas. The team drafted Ilya in the third round of the 2024 NHL Draft.

“I’m really happy to be here,” Protas said. “Last year was everything new. Those feelings from the draft were still there, and you’re kind of really excited and really happy. Still be happy to be here, but you kind of slow down and understand why you’re here.”

18-year-old Protas is coming off an incredible season with OHL Windsor. In 61 games played, he ranked second in the league in points (124), assists (74) and plus-minus rating (+58). He also scored 50 goals, becoming the first player since Alex DeBrincat in 2014-15 to score that many in his first OHL season.

“Windsor helped me to adapt and adjust,” Protas said. “The group of guys, the coaching staff, the management, they helped me a lot, especially my linemates.”

Protas said having his brother by his side this offseason has been beneficial, as well, to help aid in his growth both on and off the ice.

“Since like 10 years old, he was always bringing me to play soccer with his friends. I knew I was annoying because when you start to be older, you understand how hard it is to play with kids,” he joked. “We was close but now these days we are probably the most closest.”

In addition to sharing the ice with his older brother, Protas admits he is still star-struck by having the opportunity to skate alongside Alex Ovechkin.

“It’s actually an unreal feeling,” Protas said. “Probably the most unreal feeling just to be with him on the ice in the main camp. It was unreal to see him in the same line, and he is doing drills in front of you, and you’re in the same locker room with him. It’s something special I couldn’t even dream of.”