Capitals top prospect Ryan Leonard returning to Boston College

Despite the Washington Capitals making a late push and clinching a playoff spot Tuesday night, top prospect Ryan Leonard has opted to return to Boston College rather than join the team for the postseason.

"We support Ryan's decision to return to one of the best programs in the nation to continue his development," Capitals general manager Brian MacLellan said in a statement Wednesday. "Ryan showed great leadership and made tremendous progress during his first year, which saw him score the most goals by a freshman in Boston College program history and the third-most goals in the NCAA.

"We will continue to monitor his development and progress next year and look forward to watching Ryan build upon his successful freshman season."

After the Capitals selected him with the No. 8 pick of the 2023 draft, Leonard helped Boston College reach the Frozen Four, posting 60 points (31 goals, 29 assists) in 41 games.