Dec 21, 2024; Edmonton, Alberta, CAN; Edmonton Oilers forward Leon Draisaitl (29) celebrates after scoring a goal during overtime against the San Jose Sharks at Rogers Place. Mandatory Credit: Perry Nelson-Imagn Images

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Leon Draisaitl Dominates His Legacy as One of the Greatest NHL Players

Confident in his abilities, Leon Draisaitl continues to dominate the ice and solidify his place among the all-time greats in NHL history.

Before Leon Draisaitl signed his significant contract extension, which will make him the highest-paid player in the NHL next season, rumors suggested he was considering the idea of becoming the primary superstar for another team.

However, acting on that speculation was never a priority for Draisaitl, as he eagerly finalized his second eight-year contract with the Edmonton Oilers—this time for $14 million AAV—in September. Renowned as one of the top setup players in the sport and possibly the finest back-handed passer due to his lengthy, straight blade, Draisaitl has already reached the fifty-goal milestone three times.

Happy Leon! 😁#LetsGoOilers | @EdmontonOilers | #Draisaitl pic.twitter.com/XWdZlzZ89q
— NHL Deutsch (@NHLde) December 23, 2024

These achievements have made him a two-time Rocket Richard Trophy runner-up, and he is on track to hit the fifty-goal mark again. Draisaitl is undoubtedly one of the greatest players of his generation.

“Of course, I like to be appreciated, and I like to be seen as a really good hockey player in this world — and potentially one of the best, I appreciate that, but I’m not ego-driven enough to have to be the guy.”: Draisaitl said.

He secured the Hart Trophy and Ted Lindsay Award after winning the Art Ross Trophy in 2019-20, primarily showcasing his dominance while Connor McDavid was sidelined by injury or illness. Henrique noted how evident Draisaitl’s ability to elevate his game was earlier this season when McDavid missed three games due to an ankle injury. During that span, Draisaitl delivered consecutive three-point performances.

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Numerous teams in the NHL possess a genuine No. 1 center, though none match McDavid’s caliber. However, there isn’t a second pivot comparable to Draisaitl in the sport right now. McDavid certainly values that. McDavid frequently states that Draisaitl is sometimes the top player in the NHL.

“I know that, though, I’m not trying to be arrogant.” : Draisaitl said

Draisaitl belongs to a group alongside Nathan MacKinnon, Auston Matthews, and Cale Makar. Include a few extras on that list based on the week. However, those other players usually receive more acknowledgment.

Maybe that’s because they aren’t overshadowed by McDavid or mistakenly regarded as mere products of No. 97 — one of the greatest talents ever to wear skates.

Perhaps it’s simple to overlook Draisaitl or dismiss him as just a supporting player rather than the legendary talent that he truly is. When you’re as talented as Draisaitl, though, it doesn’t make a difference at all.

Entering the 2024 playoffs, Draisaitl ranked as the third-highest scorer in postseason history, trailing only legends Wayne Gretzky and Mario Lemieux. Although he dropped to fifth place after recording 31 points in 25 games during the Oilers’ thrilling run to Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Final, his legacy remains firmly intact. With 902 career points, Draisaitl is the all-time leading scorer from Germany—a nation steadily rising in the hockey world.

This season has particularly emphasized Draisaitl’s brilliance, as he is enjoying the finest campaign of his already illustrious career. His performance cements his status as one of the all-time greats, with a resume that already deserves induction into the Hockey Hall of Fame.

Image Credit: Perry Nelson-Imagn Images

Leon Draisaitl

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Anamika Shrivastava

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