In an exciting development for both Ryan Leonard and the Washington Capitals, the talented forward officially signed his first NHL entry-level contract on Monday, March 31, 2025. Leonard, who recently completed a standout sophomore season at Boston College, inked the deal in the locker room of Conte Forum, surrounded by his teammates. His signing marks the culmination of an impressive college career where he made history by becoming the first Division-I NCAA player to post back-to-back 30-goal seasons since Cam Atkinson.
Leonard’s leadership as an alternate captain for the Eagles helped him secure his place as the frontrunner for the Hobey Baker Award, which recognizes the top player in NCAA men’s ice hockey. His college career came to an end when Boston College was eliminated in the second round of the NCAA Tournament. Despite the early exit, Leonard’s path to the NHL is now firmly set, with a potential debut for the Capitals as early as Tuesday, April 1, 2025, when they face the Boston Bruins at TD Garden.
The announcement of Leonard’s signing follows a series of significant events for the Capitals, who are set to add the promising prospect to their roster for the final stretch of the season .
