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LAS VEGAS — Matyas Sapovaliv knows he will need to gain muscle to become an NHL-ready player.

What has been the performance of the Vegas Golden Knights’ 20-year-old center prospect? He has been primarily relying on a disciplined exercise regimen, along with a diet based on chicken and rice.

Sapovaliv, chosen by the Golden Knights as the 48th pick in the 2022 NHL Draft, expressed his ongoing efforts to gain muscle and add more weight. He admitted that completing his meals can sometimes be challenging.

There is no doubt about Sapovaliv’s hunger for victory. His impressive performance of 62 points (19 goals, 43 assists) throughout 54 games in the previous season played a crucial role in leading Saginaw from the Ontario Hockey League to clinch the Memorial Cup championship. This remarkable achievement occurred during his third season in the OHL. Additionally, he contributed nine points (three goals, six assists) in 17 playoff games.

“It was an excellent season and year,” he exclaimed. “Participating in the Memorial Cup was an incredibly rewarding experience, but winning it all made it even more extraordinary. It marks the pinnacle of my junior career.”

Sapovaliv’s game has evolved and he has become a more well-rounded player, thanks to his experiences in the OHL and the 2024 IIHF World Junior Championship with Czechia, according to Wil Nichol, the director of player development for Vegas. Sapovaliv showcased his skills in the tournament, contributing with four points (three goals, one assist) in seven games for Czechia.

“Sapo’s remarkable quality lies in his participation in significant games on grand platforms,” Nichol expressed. “These games are exceptional and offer invaluable experiences. Their worth in terms of boosting confidence is immeasurable. He has truly taken significant strides forward.”

Sapovaliv concurred, acknowledging that his confidence had been bolstered by the consistent support and guidance of the coaches and staff during his participation in several development camps with the Golden Knights.

Sapovaliv has made progress in his skating skills in the past year, but he still needs to elevate it to the next level.

He mentioned that he is still working on improving his first three steps and acceleration, but he acknowledges that there is progress being made.

This season, Sapovaliv will embark on his professional hockey journey, aiming to secure a spot alongside Henderson in the American Hockey League. His ultimate goal is to eventually earn a place on the Vegas roster.

Sapovaliv expressed, “This is yet another stride towards realizing my dream of playing in the NHL. I believe I am heading in the right direction and will continue to devote my efforts.”