Imagine a play so perfect, even your mom could score from it. That’s exactly what Aliaksei Protas said after Connor McMichael’s jaw-dropping setup led to his latest goal—his third in just four games. But here’s where it gets controversial: Was it Protas’ skill or McMichael’s genius that truly stole the show? Let’s break it down.
Protas’ goal against the Tampa Bay Lightning on Tuesday wasn’t just a highlight-reel moment—it was a masterclass in teamwork and individual brilliance. After a lightning-fast race to the puck near the corner boards, McMichael executed a twister pass—a move so slick it left Andrei Vasilevskiy completely fooled. The pass found Protas wide open on Vasilevskiy’s short side, giving the Belorussian forward an easy layup. Protas’ reaction? A mix of disbelief and pure joy, as he immediately reached up to his helmet, as if to say, Did that really just happen?
‘Oh god, my mom would score from that,’ Protas told Monumental Sports Network’s Al Koken post-game, his excitement palpable. And while the comment was lighthearted—a nod to Mother’s Day back home—it also underscored just how effortless McMichael made the play look. ‘He did like everything for me,’ Protas added, praising his teammate’s vision and execution.
And this is the part most people miss: McMichael’s pass wasn’t just a lucky break—it was the result of a calculated shoulder check and split-second decision-making. ‘I saw Pro coming late,’ McMichael explained, downplaying his role with a smile. ‘It worked out, and I’m really happy he found a way to put it in.’ But let’s be real—this wasn’t just luck. It was hockey IQ at its finest.
The play also marked McMichael’s first point of the season, a welcome breakthrough after being held scoreless in his first three games. Playing center—a position he’s slid into due to Pierre-Luc Dubois’ injury—McMichael centered the second line between Protas and Tom Wilson, going head-to-head with Tampa Bay’s star-studded trio, including Nikita Kucherov. Talk about stepping up to the challenge.
Protas’ goal was a game-changer, breaking a 37:38 shutout streak by Vasilevskiy. With five points (3 goals, 2 assists) in four games, Protas is leading the Capitals in scoring and is on pace to shatter his career-best 66-point season from last year. If he keeps this up, we’re looking at a potential 103-point season—a staggering 59 goals and 44 assists over 82 games. But here’s the question: Can he sustain this momentum, or is this just a hot start?
As for McMichael, his humility shines through. ‘He kinda embarrassed me,’ he joked about Protas’ OMG salute. ‘I mean, anytime I can help a teammate score like that, it’s good.’ Yet, his impact is undeniable. Controversial take: Is McMichael the unsung hero of this Capitals lineup? His playmaking ability and adaptability suggest he might be.
So, what do you think? Was Protas’ goal a product of his own skill, or was McMichael the real MVP of the play? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments—this is one debate that’s sure to spark some fiery opinions!
