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Alexander Ovechkin teases Ryan Leonard about his stick during morning skate
Photo credit: Bob Frid-USA TODAY
The Washington Capitals are welcoming their newest player in the dressing room as top prospect Ryan Leonard works to settle in.
Recently, The Washington Capitals signed forward Ryan Leonard to a three-year entry-level contract worth $950,000 AAV per season, effective immediately.
While the Hobey Baker finalist has undoubtedly earned his shot at the pro level, he still has earn the respect of Washington Capitals captain Alexander Ovechkin.
During morning skate, the pair were spotted getting to know each-other as the Caps' captain took some extra time to playfully haze the rookie.
Alexander Ovechkin teases Ryan Leonard about his stick
When you're the new guy on the team -- you're bound to get heckled from time-to-time.
When it came to top prospect Ryan Leonard, Capitals captain Alexander Ovechkin took special interest in his stick -- so much that he decided to try it out for himself!
Ryan Leonard and Alex Ovechkin switched sticks for a bit during morning skate:
Leonard: "He didn't like my stick, so that didn't go too hot. But it was pretty cool just to go out there and shoot with his."
Ovechkin on Leonard's stick: «It's too whippy. Yeah, he's 80 (flex).»
Leonard: "He didn't like my stick, so that didn't go too hot. But it was pretty cool just to go out there and shoot with his."
Ovechkin on Leonard's stick: «It's too whippy. Yeah, he's 80 (flex).»
That's absolutely hilarious!
It's no secret that Alexander Ovechkin prefers a stiffer stick, as he uses the 100-flex model.
Well kid, you better star taking notes form the "Great 8" if you want to be successful in the big leagues.
As funny as their on-ice interaction was, Alexander Ovechkin demonstrated nothing but class and leadership off the ice.
Before signing ELC, Ovechkin took the time to congratulate Leonard on the incredible milestone -- but the captain may have pulled the rigger a little early.
"I read it in the locker room, all the guys were in there. It was probably 5, 10 minutes before I actually signed. They're like, 'What? I don't know if you should respond to that.' I was like, I kind of have to.' But it was pretty cool"
It would appear the Alexander Ovechkin and Ryan Leonard are starting their relationship off on a hilarious note.
While banter will always be a part of hockey, it's great to see Ovechkin taking the time to help Leonard settle in.
| POLL | ||
AVRIL 1 | 56 ANSWERS Alexander Ovechkin teases Ryan Leonard about his stick during morning skate Do you think Alexander Ovechkin is a great leader? | ||
| Yes | 55 | 98.2 % |
| No | 1 | 1.8 % |
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