Another young standout in Washington’s top-nine forward group is Ryan Leonard, who had 45 points (20 goals, 25 assists) in 75 games as a rookie last season. Leonard ranked sixth in the NHL in max skating speed (24.26 mph) last season and was a standout among forwards in hardest shot (93.94 mph; 95th percentile), average shot speed (62.86 mph; 95th percentile), long-range shots on goal (26; 95th percentile), mid-range shots on goal (68; 90th percentile), mid-range goals (nine; 89th percentile) and 22-plus mph speed bursts (11; 91st percentile).
Washington’s improved forward depth and strong defensive play, combined with the emergence of their young core, could give Ovechkin a chance to finish his career with another Stanley Cup championship.