Ryan Leonard signs entry-level contract with the Caps | Gucciardi and Chesley signings | The games ahead

The Washington Capitals have officially signed forward Ryan Leonard to a three-year, entry-level contract with an average annual value of $950,000, extending through the 2026-27 season. Selected eighth overall in the 2023 NHL Draft, Leonard is set to make his NHL debut against the Boston Bruins. His collegiate success at Boston College, where he recorded impressive point totals and earned recognition as the Hockey East Player of the Year, set high expectations for his potential impact on the Capitals, especially as the team aims for the Stanley Cup Playoffs. In addition to Leonard's signing, the Capitals have also enhanced their roster by signing prospect defenseman David Gucciardi and preparing Ryan Chesley for an amateur tryout with the Hershey Bears. The team is currently dealing with a tough stretch, having lost three consecutive games, but notable milestones were achieved by players like Alex Ovechkin and Tom Wilson. As the playoffs approach, the Capitals are focused on addressing their defensive challenges while keeping an eye on the development of their young prospects. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!Monarch MoneyTake control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNHL at monarchmoney.com for 50% off your first year.5-Hour ENERGYHead to 5-hourENERGY.com to find over 15 flavors to choose from, including Watermelon, Blue Raspberry, and Peach-Mango. Need one now? Grab a 5-hour ENERGY shot at your local grocery or convenience store—they’re everywhere! Stock up today and stay energized.  Wonderful PistachiosGet snackin’ and get crackin’ with the snack that packs a protein punch. Visit WonderfulPistachios.com to learn more!  GametimeDownload the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNHL for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime.FanDuelToday's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now, new FanDuel customers can get TWO HUNDRED DOLLARS in Bonus Bets if your first FIVE DOLLAR bet wins! FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.