D.C. could become ‘best North American market’ within 25 years, Leonsis says

Washington Capitals and Wizards owner Ted Leonsis says the District’s sports future is a bright one.

The 67-year-old, reflecting on his 25 years as the owner of an NHL franchise (he also owns the city’s NBA team) in a lengthy interview with WTOP, said D.C.’s sports market has grown exponentially in recent years.

“We’ve captured a generation and we built a next generation because of our investment. Now we’re an established team and established market,” Leonsis told WTOP. “And I’m hoping to double down. Over the next 25 years, I don’t see why D.C. can’t become the best North American market.”

Leonsis, a member of the NHL’s executive committee and chair of the NBA’s media committee, believes his organization helped turn D.C. into a premier sports town.

“We’ve been — in that 25-year period — very, very aggressive,” he said. “I’d say we’ve gone from being outsiders to now being a part of the leadership. We’re leaders in many of the important next-generation initiatives.”