Yahoo Sports Miroshnichenko Wants To Be 20-Goal Scorer, Has High Expectations For Himself Going Into Second Season With Capitals
ARLINGTON, V.A. — When asked about his goals with the Washington Capitals this upcoming season, Ivan Miroshnichenko didn't need any translator before responding with a witty answer.
"A hundred," he joked.
In all seriousness, though, Miroshnichenko has a clear objective that's not so far off: he wants to score goals — A lot of them.
The Russian winger is entering his second season with the Capitals organization and is coming off a solid rookie year in North America. Miroshnichenko appeared in 21 NHL games, picking up six points, but spent most of his time in the AHL developing with the Hershey Bears.
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In 47 regular season games with Hershey, he had nine goals and 16 assists for 25 points, then took things to the next level in the Calder Cup Playoffs, scoring seven goals and adding five assists for 12 points in 20 games to help the Bears clinch their second consecutive title.
"The first season in North America, full season of pro hockey (helped) with more confidence, like more skills," Miroshnichenko said through translator and Winnipeg Jets prospect Nikita Chibrikov. "Feel more confidence on the ice, it helps a lot."
Miroshnichenko also noted how Alex Ovechkin played a key role in his development in that first season.
"He's a big person for me. He helped outside and inside the room, like everything... he help everything," Miroshnichenko said. "He's a real big person for everybody... legend."
Going into his second year with Washington, Miroshnichenko has high hopes for himself. It'll be difficult given the lack of vacancies up front, but the 20-year-old wants to secure a roster spot, and from there, he wants to become a top contributor at the highest level.
"It depends how much ice time I will have," Miroshnichenko said. "If I'll have more, it will give me confidence."
At the end of the day, though, he said that 20 goals is a realistic expectation for him.
Capitals training camp opens on Sept. 19.
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