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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.

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

Leonard, who was chosen as the No. 8 pick by the Capitals in the 2023 NHL Draft, said, “It was good. Last year, the tournament didn’t pan out as I’d hoped – we fell out in the semis. However, this year really brought things to a great close.”

This year has been significant for Leonard. During his freshman year at Boston College, he made an impressive 60 points, consisting of 31 goals and 29 assists. This placed him fourth among collegiate scorers nationwide. His contributions were instrumental in pushing Boston College to the NCAA title game.

Additionally, the Amherst, Massachusetts native secured a gold medal representing the United States at the 2024 IIHF World Junior Championship. He accumulated six points through 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, which they unfortunately lost in four straight games.

Brian MacLellan, Washington’s president of hockey operations, said, “We offered him the choice. In my view, it was a fantastic year and I believed our timing would have been advantageous. As we were short of some players going into the playoffs, it would have presented him a splendid opportunity to play against New York.”

Leonard, who had initially planned a two-year stint at Boston College, pondered over the offer before choosing to adhere to his original schedule.

“He said, ‘The night it occurred, I likely didn’t sleep until 3 or 4 in the morning. I was supposed to attend class the following day, but I was utterly clueless about what to do.'”

Leonard had a lengthy phone conversation with his elder brother John, who is a forward and has completed four seasons in the NHL. John also played six games with the Arizona Coyotes in the last season.

“The younger Leonard said, ‘We created lists outlining the advantages and disadvantages of everything. I believe I relied on him the most.'”

Leonard, with his plan set, goes back to college for his sophomore season, resolved to refine his game.

“He admitted, “Throughout this year, I’ve certainly shown signs of professionalism at times. However, I want to ensure that I’m fully prepared so I won’t regret my decision. Clearly, this is a more intense and faster-paced league, so you need to stay alert at all times. You have to prepare for what’s coming and make the best decisions when handling the puck.”

In addition to his personal ambitions, Leonard also has his sights set on team objectives. He aims to secure another world junior championship victory and assist BC in completing the journey they narrowly missed, when they suffered a 2-0 defeat to the University of Denver in the final.

“He said, ‘We fell one game short, which is why I’m returning for another year, aiming to elevate the program to its deserving position. The game was enjoyable, but hopefully, the outcome will be in our favor next time.'”