Ryan Leonard has decided not to join the Washington Capitals for the playoffs and will instead return to Boston College for his sophomore season. General manager Brian MacLellan confirmed this decision on Wednesday, stating that Leonard expressed a desire to continue playing at the NCAA level before transitioning to the NHL. MacLellan expressed support for Leonard’s choice to further develop his skills at one of the nation’s top programs.
During his first year at Boston College, Leonard showed great leadership and progress, scoring the most goals by a freshman in the program’s history and the third-most goals in the NCAA. MacLellan mentioned that the organization will continue to monitor Leonard’s development and progress in the upcoming season, looking forward to seeing him build upon his successful freshman year.
Despite speculation on social media that Leonard might change his mind and sign with the Capitals, he has decided to return to Boston College. The 19-year-old winger was the eighth pick in the draft last year and had an impressive season at Boston College, recording 60 points in 41 games and helping the Eagles reach the Frozen Four before losing in the final to Denver.
While Leonard could have potentially played in the NHL playoffs like other young players, he has chosen to focus on another season at Boston College. He will have the opportunity to play alongside linemates Will Smith and Gabe Perreault in pursuit of a national championship. Cutter Gauthier, who recently signed with Anaheim after a successful run at the world junior championship and as a finalist for the Hobey Baker Award, is expected to debut for the Ducks in their upcoming season finale against Vegas.