Washington Capitals re-sign forward Ryan Leonard for eight years, $10.5 million AAV

The Washington Capitals have re-signed forward Ryan Leonard to an eight-year extension worth $10.5 million in average annual value, the team announced Tuesday. The contract is part of a rush of long-term signings before the NHL’s new collective bargaining agreement takes effect at midnight, with tighter rules and a projected rise in the salary cap. Leonard, 21, posted 20 goals and 45 points in 75 games for the Capitals in 2025-26. The No. 8 pick in the 2023 NHL Draft and a Boston College product will remain in Washington through 2035 starting next summer. General manager Chris Patrick said the club expects development “to take time.”