Protas scored a goal in Tuesday's 4-2 win over the Golden Knights.
Protas was bumped up to the top line at even strength, logging 15:12 of ice time Tuesday compared to 10:28 in Saturday's season opener. The 23-year-old forward cashed in with the game-winning goal at 5:16 of the second period, set up by linemate Alex Ovechkin. It's likely the Capitals' lines aren't yet settled, but it's a good sign Protas is in the mix for top-six minutes, though he would likely benefit further from a power-play role. The forward broke out with 29 points in 78 regular-season outings in 2023-24.