Leonard showed elite hockey IQ and playmaking sense, arriving with an NHL call-up already on his résumé and a chance to push into a prominent role this preseason.

Leonard attends Capitals camp, carrying a first-round pedigree and nine NHL games, aiming to showcase scoring touch and two-way play to earn a roster spot or a strong AHL assignment.

Leonard is highlighted as a late-season Capitals spark with a real chance to crash Calder discussions if he builds on Capitals’ final-year exposure. His development path and NCAA-to-pro transition provide a realistic floor for fantasy relevance, should his ice time stabilize and he translates NCAA scoring into NHL production.

Ryan Leonard's solid college career and potential opportunity with the Capitals position him as a dark horse candidate for the Calder Trophy.

Leonard, as the Capitals' top prospect, has made an impact in the AHL and is expected to play a significant role in the team's future.