Young Hockey Star Takes Center Stage: Ilya Protas Makes NHL Debut In a thrilling moment for American hockey fans, Ilya Protas, a talented forward from the USHL, has made his highly anticipated NHL debut. The 20-year-old Ukrainian-born player has been making waves in the junior hockey circuit, earning a spot with the Washington Capitals after a standout season in the United States Hockey League. Protas's impressive skills on the ice, including his speed, agility, and goal-scoring prowess, have caught the attention of NHL scouts and coaches. As he takes to the ice for his first professional game, hockey enthusiasts are eager to see if he can bring his USHL success to the big leagues.