The Washington Capitals have re-signed forward Ryan Leonard to an eight-year contract extension worth $84 million, averaging $10.5 million annually, the team announced Tuesday.
The 21-year-old Leonard is entering the third and final season of his entry-level contract, under which he will earn $950,000 this season. His new extension begins in the 2027-28 season.
Leonard played his first full campaign last season after appearing in nine games with the Capitals in 2024-25. He scored 20 goals and had 45 points in 75 games for the Capitals in a 2025-26 season that saw them finish four points shy of the second and final Eastern Conference wild-card spot.
Capitals senior vice president and general manager Chris Patrick said in a statement, "We are extremely excited to sign Ryan to a long-term contract with our club. 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."
The extension comes weeks before the Capitals begin a season expected to see them challenge for the playoffs following an active offseason that included trading for winger Jordan Kyrou, a sign-and-trade to acquire winger Alex Tuch, and additions including center Boone Jenner, forward Jonny Brodzinski, defenseman Vincent Desharnais and defenseman Justin Holl.
Picked Denver Broncos over Kansas City Chiefs · 46% to win
Make your Quick Picks
Pick up to 5 winners a day. Every one that lands is 10 points, and picks save as you make them. Free to play, and missing a day costs you nothing.
Today’s Lobby
