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The Protas brothers’ dynamic performance against the Penguins highlights the Capitals’ determination to secure a playoff spot in the final weeks of the season.Today in Pittsburgh
The Washington Capitals defeated the Pittsburgh Penguins 6-3 on Saturday, with brothers Ilya and Aliaksei Protas playing key roles. Ilya Protas scored his first NHL goal and added two assists, while Aliaksei Protas also found the back of the net. The Capitals remain three points behind the Philadelphia Flyers for third place in the Metropolitan Division, thanks in part to the Protas brothers’ contributions.
Why it matters
The Capitals’ victory over the Penguins, who were missing several key players due to injuries, keeps Washington’s playoff hopes alive as they continue to chase the Flyers for a postseason berth. The Protas brothers’ performance was a bright spot for the Capitals, who are looking to secure a playoff spot in the final weeks of the regular season.
The details
The Capitals jumped out to a 1-0 lead in the second period when Aliaksei Protas scored on a back-door pass from his brother Ilya. The Penguins tied the game shortly after, but the Capitals regained the lead on a tip-in goal by Ryan Leonard. Washington then extended their lead to 3-1 on a goal by Tom Wilson, but the Penguins responded to make it 3-2. Leonard scored again to make it 4-2, but the Penguins cut the deficit to 4-3 before Ilya Protas scored a power-play goal in the third period to give the Capitals some breathing room. Alex Ovechkin added an empty-net goal to seal the 6-3 victory.
The game was played on Saturday, April 12, 2026.Aliaksei Protas scored the opening goal at 1:39 of the second period.Ilya Protas scored a power-play goal at 5:56 of the third period.
The players
Ilya Protas
A forward for the Washington Capitals who scored his first NHL goal and added two assists in the game.
Aliaksei Protas
A forward for the Washington Capitals and the brother of Ilya Protas, who also scored a goal in the game.
Tom Wilson
A forward for the Washington Capitals who scored a goal in the game.
Ryan Leonard
A forward for the Washington Capitals who scored two goals in the game.
Arturs Silovs
The goaltender for the Pittsburgh Penguins who made 25 saves in the game.
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What they’re saying
“We knew this was a big game for us, and the Protas brothers really stepped up and made a difference. Their contributions were crucial in keeping our playoff hopes alive.”
— Peter Laviolette, Head Coach, Washington Capitals
What’s next
The Capitals will continue their push for a playoff spot in their remaining games, while the Penguins will look to get their injured players back and secure their position in the Metropolitan Division.
The takeaway
The Protas brothers’ standout performance in the Capitals’ victory over the Penguins showcases the team’s depth and resilience as they fight for a playoff berth. Their contributions could prove crucial in the final stretch of the regular season.