Ryan Leonard Moved On From Jacob Trouba Hit As Capitals Prepare To Face Ducks Again: 'Just Know When He's Out There & Defend Myself'

The Capitals rookie spoke on facing Jacob Trouba for the first time since being hurt in Anaheim on a high hit from the Ducks blueliner.

ARLINGTON, V.A. — When it comes to facing Anaheim Ducks on Monday for the first time since being hurt back on Dec. 5, Washington Capitals rookie Ryan Leonard isn’t thinking too much about Jacob Trouba or the hit that left him bloodied and injured.

Leonard, who missed seven games with shoulder and facial injuries after a high hit from Trouba almost exactly one month ago, said that he is looking forward to playing the Ducks, and has moved on and learned from the play.

“Just know when he’s out there and defend myself,” Leonard said of moving forward from the hit.

He also acknowledged that Trouba didn’t reach out to check in following the hit. Trouba was not suspended, and the major penalty initially called on the play was taken off the board.

Since returning to the lineup in late December, Leonard has five points in his last six games and is on a three-game point streak. His 23 points through 35 games rank fourth-most among NHL rookies this season.

“It was tough missing those games and just being away from the team. Just, you’re so much happier when you’re with the team and you’re not injured,” Leonard said. “You’re just being with everyone every single day, putting a smile on your face, so I definitely feel a lot better.”