The Washington Capitals are a well-rounded team with several high-scoring players. They are about to add another valuable player to their roster: prospect Ryan Leonard.
While the Capitals have a good mix of size and skill, they lack a true power forward who is also a consistent goal scorer, aside from Tom Wilson. Ryan Leonard is expected to change this.
After his college season ended with Boston College, Leonard signed with the Capitals and is joining the team.
Drafted eighth overall in 2023, Leonard is considered a top prospect. Here’s what he brings to the Capitals as they head into the playoffs.
Speed, Skill, Power, and Determination
Leonard, listed at 6-foot, 200 pounds, is known for his intense competitiveness. He always goes into tough areas, battles for position around the net, and never backs down from physical play. He`s not the tallest, but he is very strong and determined.
Here`s an example of his speed and skill combined with his power and determination in the offensive zone:
Goal Scorer with Vision
Leonard is primarily a goal scorer, but he can also create plays for his teammates. He reads the ice well, uses his speed to pressure defenders, and has the vision to distribute the puck effectively.
Here’s a summary of Leonard’s college stats at Boston College. He was very aggressive in shooting the puck, averaging over five shots per game this season.
Scoring 61 goals in 78 college games is impressive. He also creates opportunities for his linemates.
Here’s an example of Leonard pushing the play and then setting up an offensive chance:
Growing Pains
At 20 years old, Leonard is still developing. Like many young players, he may face some challenges defensively at the NHL level.
The NHL game is faster and more demanding than college hockey. While Leonard played in all situations for Boston College and averaged almost 20 minutes a game, the NHL requires more defensive responsibility.
Young prospects often focus on offense. However, to earn trust in all zones, Leonard needs to ensure he consistently makes smart plays when exiting the offensive zone.
Here`s an example where Leonard gets tired and struggles defensively:
Shot Blocking
Overall, Leonard’s defensive game is reliable. He has good hockey sense, skating, and agility, allowing him to anticipate plays in his own zone. He is also willing to block shots.
Here’s an example of Leonard blocking a shot:
Career Trajectory
Leonard is a unique player with a combination of skill and determination that sets him apart. He is a shooter who can play on the power play, but also has the vision to create plays in different offensive situations.
He consistently engages physically and battles in tough areas. He scored most of his goals at even strength, showing he can score in traffic and doesn`t need open ice to be effective.
Over time, Leonard is projected to become a top-six power forward for the Washington Capitals, potentially scoring 30 goals and delivering over 200 hits per season.
This spring, in his first NHL experience, he is expected to add physicality and secondary scoring to the Capitals` forward group.
