The Washington Capitals signed forward Ryan Leonard to an eight-year extension with a $10.5-million average annual value, the team announced Tuesday.
Leonard recorded 20 goals and 25 assists as a rookie with the Capitals in 2025-26.
"Ryan is a young and talented player who is still years away from entering his prime, and we believe he has tremendous potential to continue growing into an important player for our organization," general manager Chris Patrick said in a statement.
"While reaching his full potential will take time, we have been impressed with his work ethic and the way he continues to develop his game."
The 21-year-old will play out the final year of his entry-level deal before the extension kicks in for the 2027-28 campaign. Leonard's $10.5-million AAV is set to tie him with the newly acquired Alex Tuch as the team's highest-paid player when the contract begins.
Leonard's extension marks the Capitals' third notable investment at right wing this offseason after acquiring Tuch and Jordan Kyrou. With Tom Wilson already in the fold at the position as well, it's possible Washington will primarily use Leonard at left wing for the coming season.
The Capitals selected Leonard eighth overall in the 2023 NHL Draft. He enjoyed a stellar career at Boston College before turning pro; he was a finalist for the Hobey Baker Award in 2024-25 after leading the NCAA with 30 goals in 37 games.
