The Capitals are expected to sign Ryan Leonard to his entry-level contract at some point on Monday. (Sammi Silber - The Hockey News)ARLINGTON, V.A. — After Boston College was eliminated at the hands of Denver on Sunday, Washington Capitals coach Spencer Carbery reached out to prospect Ryan Leonard, letting him know he was impressed with what was yet another successful NCAA season.
It was a "quick exchange," but one that the coach felt was important as the 20-year-old appears set to make the NHL jump.
"I'm proud of him, of the season that he’s had but also the way he’s conducted himself," Carbery said. "The year that he’s had with the world juniors and another really strong season for him at B.C. Anytime you don’t win the last game, it’s a tough feeling, especially having played college hockey. You put a lot into that, and those one-and-done scenarios are tough. So, just there for him and we’ll see where it goes."
Per multiple sources, Leonard is expected to sign with Washington at some point on Monday and could make his NHL debut in his hometown of Boston on Tuesday when the Capitals visit the Bruins.
As the Capitals head up north, they are also pondering lineup changes, as Carbery again expressed concerns surrounding the top-6's play and chemistry of late.
Anthony Beauvillier was promoted to the top line with Pierre-Luc Dubois and Alex Ovechkin back on Sunday, and though Carbery liked what that trio could do, he'll take a look at other potential combinations going into Tuesday.
"We're asking our top six to do a little bit more... I'm moving things around," Carbery said. "Just feel like the chemistry there's been a little bit off, so we'll try to find some combinations that we feel good about."