Mar 30, 2025; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Washington Capitals center Aliaksei Protas (21) scores a goal past Buffalo Sabres goaltender James Reimer (47) during the third period at Capital One Arena. Mandatory Credit: Amber Searls-Imagn Images

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Capital’s Aliaksei Protas Sidelined Week-to-Week with Injury

Washington forward Aliaksei Protas is out week-to-week, dealing a setback to the Capitals' lineup.

While the Washington Capitals are still riding high from Alex Ovechkin’s historic achievement, not all news from the team was positive. Forward Aliaksei Protas will be out week-to-week after suffering a lower-body injury during Friday night’s game against the Chicago Blackhawks. According to the team’s announcement, Protas sustained a cut to his foot in a collision near the net, leaving Washington with a key piece missing as they gear up for the playoffs.

This injury couldn’t have come at a worse time for the Capitals. The 6’6″, 225-pound forward has been enjoying a breakout season, setting new career highs in goals, assists, points, plus-minus rating, and shooting percentage.

Capitals Aliaksei Protas Out Week-To-Weekhttps://t.co/06PlfZaPH5
— Pro Hockey Rumors (@prohockeyrumors) April 6, 2025

The 24-year-old has tallied 30 goals and 66 points while maintaining a stellar plus-40 rating, all while averaging just 16:27 of ice time per game. Perhaps even more impressive, nearly all his production has come at even strength, with just one power-play point to his name. His 60 even-strength points tie him with Mitch Marner for eighth in the league this season, showcasing just how impactful he has been.

To put his growth into perspective, Protas had recorded just 53 career points in 169 NHL games before this season. His transformation has played a significant role in the Capitals’ success, making his absence a major blow as the team looks to solidify its position heading into the playoffs.

Capitals Turn to Anthony Beauvillier

With Protas unavailable, head coach Spencer Carbery is turning to Anthony Beauvillier to step into the lineup. The Capitals acquired the 27-year-old forward at the trade deadline from the Pittsburgh Penguins, and he has since played 12 games with Washington, scoring twice. Across the entire season, he has registered 15 goals in 75 games, bringing valuable experience and depth to the roster.

Carbery spoke highly of Beauvillier before the Capitals’ game against the Islanders, praising his adaptability and calling him a “Swiss Army knife” who can be slotted anywhere in the lineup. He also highlighted the veteran’s seamless transition into the locker room, emphasizing that Beauvillier has been a great fit with the team culture.

Head coach Spencer Carbery meets with the media ahead of puck drop on Long Island and provides an update on Aliaksei Protas, as well as discusses the early start today, Anthony Beauvillier slotting back into the lineup and more. #CapsIsles pic.twitter.com/SVSVxn6UL1
— x – Washington Capitals (@Capitals) April 6, 2025

Beauvillier was placed on the fourth line alongside Brandon Duhaime and Nic Dowd for Sunday’s 4-1 loss to the Islanders. Despite the defeat, he logged 17 shifts and 12:49 of ice time, proving he’s ready to step up in Protas’ absence.

While losing Protas is a tough pill to swallow, the Capitals will have to rally and adjust as they push toward the postseason. His return remains uncertain, but Washington will be hoping to have him back in time for the most crucial stretch of the season.

Image Credit: Amber Searls-Imagn Images

Aliaksei Protas

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Anamika Shrivastava

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I’ve always loved writing and storytelling, and hockey gives me a perfect stage for endless stories to tell. Whether it’s breaking down a game, analyzing a big trade, or capturing the emotions on the ice, I bring the NHL to life through words. So what’s the best part you ask? Watching the action unfold and turning it into something fans can connect with. To my readers: Hockey is more than just a game—it’s the highs, the heartbreaks, and the moments that make us jump off our seats. So, keep cheering, keep debating, and never stop loving the madness of the sport!