Washington Capitals forward Ryan Leonard represented Team USA at the IIHF World Championships in Switzerland.
Despite a loss to the host country in the preliminary round on Friday, Leonard stood out.
Leonard’s Performance Against Switzerland
Leonard led all forwards with 17:12 minutes of ice time in the 3-1 loss to Switzerland. He recorded one shot on goal and totaled four penalty minutes. Alex Steeves scored the only goal for the Americans.
The 21-year-old had an altercation with Damian Riat at the end of the game, and an earlier run-in with Nico Hischier. Leonard received two minutes for roughing and an additional two minutes for unsportsmanlike conduct.
Leonard’s Rookie Season Recognition
Coming off a 20-goal, 45-point campaign, Leonard finished eighth in Calder Trophy voting this past week as the NHL’s rookie of the year. He received one third-place vote, four fourth-place votes and 19 fifth-place votes.
Leonard is the only Washington skater playing in the tournament.
Canada’s Victory and Upcoming Matches
Team Canada, with Capitals head coach Spencer Carbery serving as an assistant and goaltending coach Scott Murray also on board, rallied for a 5-3 win in their preliminary game against Sweden on Friday. Connor Brown scored the game-winning goal.
- Team USA will face Great Britain.
- Canada will take on Italy.
- Both teams continue with the preliminary round on Saturday.
Team USA will face Great Britain and Canada will take on Italy as both teams continue with the preliminary round on Saturday.