Leonard has unfinished business before making jump to NHL with Capitals

The No. 8 pick in the 2023 Draft, who is a forward, is concentrating on his quest for an NCAA title this season with Boston College.

ARLINGTON, Va. — Washington Capitals fans will have to wait a little longer before they can watch Ryan Leonard fill the net at Capital One Arena, but the talented 19-year-old forward gave them a preview of things to come during Capitals development camp in July.

Leonard guided his team to victory in the 3-on-3 tournament and the Future Caps Cup on the final day of camp at Washington’s practice facility, in front of a packed crowd.

“Last year, the tournament didn’t go as I’d hoped – we lost in the semis, but this year really made up for it,” said Leonard, who was chosen as the No. 8 pick by the Capitals in the 2023 NHL Draft. “It was a good year.”

This year has been significant for Leonard. As a freshman at Boston College, he scored 60 points consisting of 31 goals and 29 assists. This achievement placed him fourth among collegiate scorers nationwide. His efforts played a significant role in helping Boston College reach the NCAA title game.

Additionally, the Amherst, Massachusetts native won a gold medal with the United States at the 2024 IIHF World Junior Championship. He scored six points, consisting of three goals and three assists, in seven games.

Washington was so impressed with Leonard’s season that they approached him about joining the Capitals before their Eastern Conference First Round series against the New York Rangers. Unfortunately, they lost the series in four straight games.

Brian MacLellan, Washington’s president of hockey operations, said, “We offered him the option. I believed it was an excellent year and our timing would have been perfect. We were short of some players going into the playoffs, and it would have been an ideal opportunity for him to play against New York.”

Leonard contemplated the offer, despite having already planned to spend two years at Boston College. However, he ultimately decided to adhere to his original timetable.

“He admitted, “The night it occurred, I likely didn’t fall asleep until around 3 or 4 a.m. I had class the following day and was completely at a loss as to what to do.”

Leonard had a lengthy phone conversation with his older brother, John. John is a forward who has four NHL seasons under his belt, having played six games with the Arizona Coyotes in the most recent season.

“The younger Leonard remarked, “We compiled lists of advantages and disadvantages for everything. I believe I relied on him the most.”

Leonard, armed with a plan, heads back to college for his sophomore season, resolved to refine his game.

“He admitted, “Throughout this year, there were instances where I demonstrated professionalism, but I want to ensure I’m prepared so I don’t regret my decision. Clearly, this league is larger and faster, so you have to be constantly alert, prepared for whatever might come your way, and make the most optimal decisions with the puck.”

Leonard also has his sights set on team objectives, specifically securing another world junior championship and aiding BC to complete the mission it could not accomplish when it suffered a 2-0 defeat to the University of Denver in the final.

“He said, “We fell short by one game, which is why I’m returning for another year, to strive to bring the program to where it deserves to be. Although the game was enjoyable, I hope the outcome will be different next time.”