The Washington Capitals are a strong team offensively, with several players capable of scoring. While they have a good mix of size and skill, they`ve been missing a true power forward known for scoring, aside from Tom Wilson.
This is about to change with the arrival of Ryan Leonard. After Boston College`s tournament run ended, Leonard signed with the Capitals and is expected to join the team soon.
Drafted eighth overall in 2023, Leonard is a highly regarded prospect. Here’s what he brings to Washington as they head towards the playoffs.
Speed, Skill, Power, and Determination
Leonard, listed at 6-foot and 200 pounds, is known for his intense competitiveness. He consistently engages physically, battling for position in crucial areas and never backing down from contact. He combines strength and determination effectively.
Here’s an example of his speed and skill on the attack, followed by his power and determination in the offensive zone:
Goal Scorer with Vision
While primarily a goal scorer, Leonard can also create plays for teammates. He has good vision and uses his speed to pressure defenders. He can also slow down and wait for support to distribute the puck effectively.
Leonard`s college stats at Boston College show his scoring ability. He averaged over five shots per game this season.
Scoring 61 goals in 78 college games is impressive, and he also contributes to his linemates` scoring opportunities.
Here’s an example of Leonard pushing the play and then setting up an offensive opportunity:
Growing Pains
At only 20, Leonard will face challenges in the NHL, especially defensively. The NHL pace is much faster than college hockey. While he played in all situations for Boston College, averaging 20 minutes a game, the NHL demands more.
Young prospects often focus on offense, but NHL success requires responsibility in all zones. Leonard needs to ensure his defensive zone exits are efficient.
Here’s an example of Leonard struggling defensively due to fatigue:
Shot Blocking
Overall, Leonard`s defensive game is reliable. His hockey sense and skating allow him to anticipate plays in his zone. He is also willing to block shots.
Here’s an example of Leonard’s shot-blocking commitment:
Career Trajectory
Leonard is a unique prospect with a combination of skill and determination. He`s a scoring threat who can play on the power play but also create plays from various positions.
He consistently engages physically and scores goals in high-traffic areas, indicating he doesn`t need open ice to be effective offensively.
Leonard is projected to become a top-six power forward for the Capitals, potentially scoring 30 goals and delivering over 200 hits per season.
In the short term, he should bring physicality and additional scoring to the Capitals as they enter the playoffs.
Tristan Blackwood