The Washington Capitals’ future for the franchise’s next chapter has begun taking shape. Former general manager Brian MacLellan did a great job through drafting to set up the next era for the organization. For example, forward Aliaksei Protas is locked up long-term with a five-year extension he signed back in January. Connor McMichael signed a bridge deal back on July 1 that could potentially lead to a longer contract down the road. Hendrix Lapierre is looking to stay in D.C. for the entire 2024-25 season. Defenseman Vincent Iorio continues to develop his game as well, as he looks to become a valuable piece to the blue line puzzle in the coming seasons for Washington. In the college hockey scene, forward prospect Ryan Leonard showed solid skills that will propel him to the next level.
Despite being able to play in Washington’s system now though, the Massachusetts native Leonard chose to head back for his second campaign at Boston College. If the 2023-24 season for the school had played out differently, it could have been a different story for the 19-year-old.
Ryan Leonard Chasing Boston College Championship
The Capitals selected Leonard in the first round (eighth overall) of the 2023 NHL Entry Draft. He previously developed his game in the U.S. National Development Team (USNDTP) in the United States Hockey League (USHL) for the 2021-22 and 2022-23 campaigns. While growing in that program, he produced the following numbers:
- 2021-22: 10 goals and five assists for 15 points in 33 games
- 2022-23: 11 goals and nine assists for 20 points in 17 games
After being drafted by Washington, Ryan Leonard headed to Boston College to suit up for the Eagles. As one of the most prominent hockey colleges in the United States, Boston College has helped develop great talents who have gone on to have successful NHL careers. A couple of the most famous alumni from their program include Hockey Hall of Famers Brian Leetch and Joe Mullen.
In his first season at Boston College, Leonard played in 41 games. He scored 31 goals and provided 29 assists for a total of 60 points. While it was a successful campaign for him in points, the Eagles did not win the NCAA championship. They lost in the National Championship Game to the Denver Pioneers by a 2-0 score. That loss played a significant role in Leonard’s decision to remain with Boston College for a second season. He feels that there is business he needs to take care of in the NCAA before joining the Capitals organization.
Leonard Cares About Team Results
While it would be cool to already have Ryan Leonard in the Capitals’ system, another season in the NCAA will only help his development further. He proved last season that he is ready for the next level, but he wants another opportunity to bring an NCAA championship to Boston College. This is a great quality to have in a competitor. As much individual success as he had, he is not satisfied with how things played out for the team. It is a trait that Capitals fans can look forward to once he arrives in Washington down the road.
