Capitals sign Ryan Leonard to eight-year extension

The Washington Capitals have locked in one of their young stars to a long-term deal. On Tuesday, the team announced they signed forward Ryan Leonard to an eight-year, $84-million contract extension that will carry a cap hit of $10.5 million The contract will kick in following the 2026-27 season after Leonard’s entry-level deal expires, and will keep him under contract through the 2034-35 campaign. Sportsnet hockey insider Elliotte Friedman was the first to report the deal. Leonard, 21, finished his NHL rookie campaign with 20 goals and 25 assists for 45 points in 75 games with the Capitals in 2025-26....