Ryan Leonard Will Not Join Capitals For Playoffs, Set To Return To Boston College For Sophomore Season

The Washington Capitals will have to wait to see Ryan Leonard make his NHL debut, as the 19-year-old has elected to return to Boston College rather than turning pro at this time.

General manager Brian MacLellan announced on Wednesday that Leonard indicated to the organization that it is his preference to return to Boston College for his sophomore NCAA season, so he will not yet sign his entry-level contract.

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"Ryan Leonard indicated his desire to return for his sophomore season at Boston College. We support Ryan's decision to return to one of the best programs in the nation to continue his development," MacLellan said. "Ryan showed great leadership and made tremendous progress during his first year, which saw him score the most goals by a freshman in Boston College program history and the third-most goals in the NCCAA. We will continue to monitor his development and progress next year and look forward to watching Ryan build upon his successful freshman season."

Leonard appeared in 41 games with the Eagles in his freshman year, racking up 31 goals and 29 assists for 60 points. He helped Boston College all the way to the national championship, where the Eagles fell to the Denver Pioneers.

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For Leonard, returning to the NCAA will give him the chance to continue his development and growth while giving him another shot at a national championship. As he explained after winning gold at World Juniors earlier this year, the NHL will be there waiting, but he only has so long to play collegiate hockey.

Leonard was taken eighth overall in the 2023 NHL Draft.