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Star forward Leon Draisaitl’s recent absence from the Edmonton Oilers has provided him with a clearer understanding of life’s true priorities.
The 30-year-old pivot departed the NHL squad last week, traveling back to Germany to deal with a family health issue.
During his three-game absence, the Edmonton team achieved a 2-1-0 record, netting 12 goals while conceding only two.
Draisaitl expressed that the Oilers organization was understanding of his short personal time off.
“It was imperative for me to be alongside my family,” he stated on Saturday. “Sometimes, it helps you realize the insignificance of things here when compared to life itself.”
Following an extensive day of travel, the prolific goal-scorer reunited with his squad on Thursday, spending 19 minutes and 17 seconds on the ice during Edmonton’s 6-2 defeat against the Pittsburgh Penguins.
He participated in the morning skate session on Saturday. Later that day, the Oilers, holding a 25-19-8 record, were scheduled to welcome the Washington Capitals.
“I can only begin to fathom the challenges Leon has faced over the last week and a half,” remarked Oilers head coach Kris Knoblauch. “To compete given his circumstances — traveling extensively, enduring time zone shifts, and then stepping onto the ice — it would be unreasonable to expect Leon to perform optimally.”
Across 49 appearances this season, Draisaitl has accumulated 25 goals and 42 assists, placing him second in team scoring, trailing only Connor McDavid’s 85 points.
Knoblauch further commented that even when Draisaitl is not performing at his peak, he still provides a “significant advantage” to the Oilers, benefiting both their five-on-five situations and power-play opportunities.
“His presence alone is a clear asset to our roster,” the coach stated. “Naturally, when we are thriving and the squad is performing effectively, he plays a crucial role. We eagerly anticipate his optimal performance.”
Andrew Mangiapane, a winger, is anticipated to form a line alongside Draisaitl and Vasily Podkolzin for the upcoming game against the Capitals.
He remarked that being on the ice with Draisaitl consistently presents a substantial opportunity.
“Clearly, he’s a highly skilled and gifted player, isn’t he? My goal is simply to step onto the ice, execute my own strategy, and aim to enhance the play of both him and Podzi,” Mangiapane expressed.
“He’s only recently returned, yet, undoubtedly, he’s an intelligent, adept player. Therefore, if you create space, he will locate you. Just strive to play your customary style.”
Anastasia Bucsis of CBC Sports engaged in a conversation with hockey media figure and ex-NHLer Paul Bissonnette, discussing the men’s Olympic hockey championship and his opinions on the national team. Their discussion also touched upon the popular TV program, Heated Rivalry.
As they approach Saturday’s contest, the Oilers find themselves in second place within the Pacific Division, trailing the Vegas Golden Knights by four points.
Draisaitl mentioned that although he didn’t monitor the team’s play “shift by shift” from Germany, he recognizes that the squad must establish greater consistency in their upcoming six matches before the Olympic hiatus.
“Our performance in the previous game was clearly not our strongest,” he commented. “It is crucial for us to rediscover our form before the impending break.”
