Will Smith, Leonard’s center and former National Team Development Program linemate, chose to leave BC after his freshman season and sign with the San Jose Sharks. Leonard did not follow. He wanted one more go with the Eagles alongside fellow sophomores Drew Fortescue, Jacob Fowler and Gabe Perreault, all NHL picks. Leonard did not regret it.

Leonard won a battle on the wall and then two races to loose pucks to keep the play alive before feeding Aliaksei Protas at the point, which began a tic-tac-toe passing sequence that led to Dylan Strome’s goal with 9:23 left in the game.

One of the most highly-touted players in college hockey is ready to step into the big time, as Ryan Leonard is set to make his NHL debut with the Washington Capitals on Tuesday night when they face the Boston Bruins.