Ryan Leonard officially became a Washington Capital on Monday.
Leonard, who just completed his sophomore season with the Boston College Eagles, signed his NHL entry-level contract in the locker room of Conte Forum surrounded by his teammates.
“Ryan had a prolific two-year career at Boston College,” BC men’s hockey coach Greg Brown said in a statement. “It was a pleasure working with him and we look forward to seeing him compete at the next level.”
Leno makes it official ✍️ pic.twitter.com/hgffCNRE42
— BC Men's Hockey (@BC_MHockey) March 31, 2025
Sophomore Eagles forward Will Vote crouched beside Leonard in the photo. Top 2025 NHL draft prospect and frequent Leonard linemate, James Hagens, poses third from the top left while wearing a backward hat. Leonard’s other liney, Gabe Perreault, was not in the photo, perhaps because he had already left for the New York Rangers after signing earlier in the day.
Notably, the Conte Forum clock behind Leonard reads 1:04. The Capitals announced the news on X at 12:59.
Leonard, an alternate captain for the Eagles, became the first Division-I NCAA player to post back-to-back 30-goal seasons since Cam Atkinson in 2009-10 and 2010-11. He is also the favorite to win the Hobey Baker Award as the top NCAA men’s ice hockey player.
Leonard’s signing came a day after the Eagles were eliminated in the second round of the NCAA Tournament. He could make his NHL debut against the Boston Bruins at TD Garden on Tuesday night.
