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.
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."
