Miroshnichenko Embodying Ovechkin In MHL Return With Huge Hits, Goals

Washington Capitals prospect Ivan Miroshnichenko is not only getting back into the regular rhythm of things as he continues his return from Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, but he’s making his presence known and making headlines while embodying Alex Ovechkin in just his third game back for the MHL’s Omskie Yasterby.

The 18-year-old landed a monstrous hit on Riyaz Galiyev in the opening seconds of the first period to set the tone in Omskie’s tilt with Sputnik Almetievsk.

OH MY 😬#ALLCAPS prospect Ivan Miroshnichenko hit on Riyaz Galiyev. 💪 #MHL pic.twitter.com/zO1U1CMLdf

— Hockey News Hub (@HockeyNewsHub) November 11, 2022

Then, toward the end of the opening frame, Miroshnichenko sniped a quick shot from the left circle to make it 2-0. The Hawks topped Sputnik 4-1.

Miroshnichenko now has three points in three games and a shootout winner on his resume so far. He is looking like he could very well be one of, if not, the biggest steal of the 2022 NHL Draft.

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After a cancer diagnosis in March, Miroshnichenko’s draft stock fell as he underwent chemotherapy. However, Capitals assistant general manager Ross Mahoney and the organization kept in touch with the Russian. After consulting with the medical staff and liking Miroshnichenko’s goal-scoring ability, hard-hitting style and leadership, Washington drafted him 20th overall.

“Great pick,” Ovechkin said. “He’s one of the young players who can be a superstar,” Ovechkin said.

Miroshnichenko went into remission in June and was back skating and practicing ahead of the season. He returned to game action for Omsk earlier this week. The 6-1, 194-pound forward is under contract with the KHL’s Avangard Omsk until 2024.