Ivan Miroshnichenko’s NHL dream just came true. The 20-year-old Russian sniper scored his first career NHL goal against the Pittsburgh Penguins. The goal also marked his first NHL point.
Alone in front of the net, Miroshnichenko gathered in a Dylan Strome centering pass that bounced off Alex Nedeljkovic’s stick. The left wing then evaded the Penguins goaltender’s pokecheck and slid the puck past his outstretched left pad for the milestone marker.
What a beautiful power move to the net.
Miroshnichenko was absolutely beaming after scoring, pumping his fists and flashing a huge smile as he celebrated with his linemates along the boards. He scored while fellow Russian Evgeni Malkin was on the ice.
Miroshnichenko was mobbed by Alex Ovechkin, his idol, at the bench in what was a wonderful moment. Ovechkin hugged Miroshnichenko and gave him a facewash, before patting him on top of the helmet. Miro’s teammates and coaches also came over to extend congratulations, including head coach Spencer Carbery.
Miroshnichenko scored the goal using one of Alex Ovechkin’s new model of sticks. He’s been using Ovi’s curve all season long both in Washington and Hershey after not doing so in Russia.
WE ARE SO HAPPY FOR YOU, MIRO!!!!!!!#ALLCAPS | @LeidosInc pic.twitter.com/DfH761Ouis
— Washington Capitals (@Capitals) March 8, 2024
Miroshnichenko’s goal came in the young Russian’s fifth NHL game. Down in Hershey, Miroshnichenko has tallied 25 points (9g, 15a) in 47 games. He figures to be a huge part of the Capitals in the future.
Two years ago, Mirosnichenko was diagnosed with Hodgkin's lymphoma. He received a call from Mario Lemieux, who battled Hodgkin's lymphoma in 92-93 and told him "Life doesn't end. You're going to recover."
Now, he scores his first NHL goal in Pittsburgh, where Mario starred.
— Tom Gulitti (@TomGulittiNHL) March 8, 2024
The 2023-24 season is Miroshnichenko’s first playing professional hockey in North America. Miroshnichenko missed parts of the 2021-22 and 2022-23 campaigns in Russia due to a cancer diagnosis of Hodgkin lymphoma elivered on his 18th birthday in 2022.
