Ryan Leonard Still Set On Returning To Boston College, Will Not Join Capitals This Season

ARLINGTON, V.A. — Ryan Leonard is looking forward to his future with the Washington Capitals, but it'll have to wait a little bit longer, as he remains intent on one more year at Boston College.

Leonard said on Wednesday that he has not reconsidered his decision regarding taking the next step with the Capitals, and the plan is to return to the NCAA and try to win a championship.

The 19-year-old said the Capitals offered him an entry-level contract after clinching a spot in the Stanley Cup Playoffs. However, after speaking to his family and agent, he chose to keep taking the college route and turned down the offer.

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"I want to be a part of the team that wins Boston College another national championship," Leonard said. "Not really ready to leave."

He also said that he's enjoyed his time in school and noted that it's a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and that also factored into his decision.

"I've talked to a lot of people about this: college is the best time in your life," Leonard added. "A lot of people that go one and done, 10 years down the road, said they regret it."

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In 41 games with B.C. this past season, he picked up a record-setting 31 goals and added 29 assists for 60 points.

When it comes to areas of his game where he still wants to improve, he said that he wants to continue to grow into a leader and also become a "pro" at the collegiate level before making that NHL jump.