2022 NHL Draft: Capitals Select Ivan Miroshnichenko At 20th Overall

The Washington Capitals held on to their 20th overall pick in the 2022 NHL Draft and won big, selecting left winger Ivan Miroshnichenko.

In 31 VHL games with Omskie Krylia this season, Miroshnichenko dished 10 goals and six assists. He also played in one MHL game with the Omskie Yastreby of the MHL. In the Ivan Hlinka Cup last summer, he captained Russia to gold with four goals and five assists in five games.

His 2021-22 campaign was interrupted when he was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, a cancer that impacts the lymphatic system, in March. Prior to his diagnosis, he was considered a potential top-10 pick. Per Mike Vogel, the Capitals spoke with Miroshnichenko on Wednesday. They also went over his medical reports and felt confident in taking him.

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A strong skater, Miroscnichenko has great hands and stickhandling ability. His biggest asset is his shot, as he can shoot from anywhere. While he’s a sniper, he can make great passes and carry the puck up ice to start the breakout. The 6-1, 191-pound forward has a similar playing style to Alex Ovechkin.

This is a great selection and steal for Washington, who gets more depth at the forward position. The Russian has great potential and upside and, if not for his diagnosis, could have gone much higher in the draft.