The Washington Capitals are set for an exciting matchup against the Philadelphia Flyers, featuring a unique storyline of sibling performances on the ice. Head Coach Spencer Carbery, who has a soft spot for family narratives in sports, will witness the Protas and Strome brothers play together for the Capitals during the game at Hershey’s GIANT Center.
Aliaksei and Ilya Protas, along with Dylan and Matt Strome, are expected to suit up, continuing an ongoing tradition within the team. This marks a homecoming for Aliaksei Protas, who previously played a preseason game with his brother. Meanwhile, it will be a debut for the Strome brothers playing in the same lineup under the Capitals banner, with Matt Strome currently under an AHL contract.
Capitals’ star Alex Ovechkin will be absent from the lineup as he recovers from a lower-body injury. Despite his current condition, Ovechkin expressed his optimism about returning soon, showing positive signs during practice.
In this preseason fixture, key players such as Ivan Miroshnichenko, Sonny Milano, and Hendrix Lapierre are set to gain more on-ice experience, while newcomer Andrew Cristall prepares to make an impression in front of the coaching staff.
The projected lines for the game include:
1. Ivan Miroshnichenko – Dylan Strome – Ryan Leonard
2. Andrew Cristall – Connor McMichael – Aliaksei Protas
3. Sonny Milano – Hendrix Lapierre – Ethen Frank
4. Matt Strome – Ilya Protas – Justin Sourdif/Terik Parascak
On defense, Rasmus Sandin will pair with Matt Roy, while other defensive partnerships and the goaltending duo of Charlie Lindgren and Clay Stevenson will round out the roster.
This matchup not only provides a platform for emerging talent but also underlines the sentimental value of sibling partnerships in sports, reminding fans and players alike of the unique bonds and stories that make hockey special.