Oilers fans are seeing a new version of Draisaitl that they have dreamed about.

In the fast-paced world of the NHL, expectations for star players are often sky-high. The pressure to deliver game after game is immense, particularly when a team has players of the caliber of Edmonton Oilers’ Leon Draisaitl. A few years ago, Draisaitl was already regarded as one of the top players in the league, known for his incredible offensive output and playmaking ability. But over the past season and a half, Oilers fans have been witnessing something even more special—a new version of Draisaitl that could change the trajectory of the team for years to come.

Draisaitl has long been one of the NHL’s premier talents. A multi-time All-Star, a Hart Trophy finalist, and one of the league’s top point-scorers, Draisaitl has always delivered when it mattered most. However, the recent evolution in his game has made Oilers fans stand up and take notice, as Draisaitl appears to be adding a new dimension to his play—one that could take the team to heights they have long dreamed about. His leadership, maturity, two-way play, and defensive efforts are becoming key elements of his game, marking a departure from the predominantly offensive version of Draisaitl fans have known. This article will explore this exciting transformation and its potential impact on the Oilers’ season and future.

1. A History of Offensive Excellence

Before diving into the new version of Leon Draisaitl, it’s important to recognize just how incredible his career has been to this point. Draisaitl’s offensive prowess was evident from the moment he entered the league in 2014, when the Oilers selected him with the third overall pick in the NHL Draft. In his rookie season, Draisaitl showed glimpses of what was to come, finishing with 37 points in 72 games. However, it was his third season that truly launched him into superstardom, as he became a consistent point-per-game player alongside Connor McDavid, the Oilers’ franchise centerpiece.

Draisaitl’s combination of size, strength, vision, and puck skills quickly made him a top-tier forward. His ability to dish out assists to McDavid on one-timers or use his quick hands to score from virtually any spot on the ice was impressive. In 2020-2021, Draisaitl recorded a career-high 110 points in 71 games and won the Art Ross Trophy as the NHL’s leading scorer, solidifying himself as one of the league’s elite players.

Throughout his career, Draisaitl has been synonymous with high-end offense, regularly finishing near the top of the league in points, assists, and goals. However, what has often been overlooked is the way he has continuously improved aspects of his game that go beyond offensive production.

2. The Evolution of Leon Draisaitl: A New Style of Play Emerges

As impressive as Draisaitl’s offensive production has been, his recent growth as a complete player is what has Oilers fans buzzing. The biggest shift in his game has come in terms of his leadership, defensive responsibility, and overall commitment to playing a 200-foot game. While Draisaitl has always been a capable two-way player, this version of him is different—a more mature, balanced, and refined version of himself that is not only focusing on offensive production but also looking to contribute defensively.

A More Focused Defensive Game

One of the most noticeable changes in Draisaitl’s play this season is his increased commitment to defense. As a forward, Draisaitl has always been a willing backchecker, but now he is showing an even greater willingness to engage in defensive battles. His willingness to play in all three zones has provided the Oilers with a more well-rounded approach to their game.

Under coach Jay Woodcroft, the Oilers have made a concerted effort to improve their defensive play, and Draisaitl has stepped up as one of the key players in this shift. Draisaitl’s positioning in the defensive zone is more consistent, and his work along the boards has become an asset in preventing opposing teams from establishing offensive pressure. While his offensive skills are still his defining trait, his newfound defensive focus has made him a more valuable asset overall, as he helps limit scoring chances in key moments of games.

Draisaitl’s defensive awareness has been visible in his ability to break up plays, track pucks effectively, and close gaps when necessary. His shift to a more balanced approach, where his commitment to both ends of the rink is equal, has allowed him to make an even bigger impact on games—particularly when the Oilers are defending a lead.

Taking on More of a Leadership Role

Another key development in Draisaitl’s game has been his growth as a leader on and off the ice. With captain Connor McDavid as the face of the franchise, Draisaitl has sometimes played in McDavid’s shadow, but his recent performances have showcased his ability to take on more responsibility and lead by example.

Draisaitl’s leadership is particularly evident in moments when McDavid is not on the ice. He has increasingly been counted on to steer the team’s offense and to set the tone for his teammates, not only with his play but with his vocal presence in the locker room. His self-assurance has become contagious, and he now exudes confidence in both his play and in guiding the team through tough stretches. He’s shown the ability to step up in high-pressure moments and ensure that the team is executing their game plan, regardless of who is on the ice with him.

In crucial moments, Draisaitl has been the player to step up. Whether it’s creating a timely scoring chance, winning a key faceoff, or driving possession in the offensive zone, he has proven to be a reliable performer when the stakes are high. This newfound leadership, combined with his on-ice intelligence, has made him an even more integral part of the Oilers’ success.

Enhanced Faceoff Skills and Physical Play

In addition to his defensive game, Draisaitl has worked on improving his faceoff skills and physical presence. Known for his strength on the puck, Draisaitl has added another layer to his game by becoming more of a physical presence in battles along the boards. He’s not afraid to use his 6-foot-2, 210-pound frame to shield the puck, win board battles, or create space for his teammates. This more physical side of Draisaitl adds an extra dimension to the Oilers’ offense, as he can now protect the puck better and play a more complete game in the dirty areas of the ice.

His faceoff percentage has also improved over the years. In a league where puck possession is key, Draisaitl’s ability to win key draws, particularly in offensive and defensive zones, gives the Oilers an edge in puck control. His faceoff proficiency adds an extra layer of control to the team’s ability to dictate play and maintain possession, making him an even more valuable asset during important moments of games.

3. Why This New Version of Draisaitl Could Lead the Oilers to Success

For Oilers fans, the emergence of this new version of Leon Draisaitl couldn’t come at a better time. The team, which has long been built around McDavid’s brilliance, has finally found its identity as a more well-rounded, balanced team under coach Jay Woodcroft. Draisaitl’s transformation into a more complete player—one who is just as committed to defense as he is to offense—brings new hope that the Oilers can compete at a higher level and contend for championships.

A Two-Way Powerhouse

With Draisaitl embracing a two-way game, the Oilers now have the ability to be more adaptable and less predictable. In previous seasons, the team often found themselves in shootouts with opponents, relying heavily on their high-powered offense to outscore the competition. However, with Draisaitl and McDavid both taking on more responsibility in the defensive zone, the Oilers are no longer one-dimensional. This newfound balance allows the team to win games in different ways—whether it’s a high-scoring affair or a tightly contested defensive battle.

Additionally, Draisaitl’s improved play without the puck helps the Oilers with transition play. His ability to play a structured defensive game allows the team to quickly go from defense to offense, where both Draisaitl and McDavid are able to make quick, dangerous plays in the offensive zone.

More Depth Across the Lineup

Draisaitl’s growth also creates more depth for the Oilers. In past years, the team relied heavily on their top-six forwards to generate offense. However, with Draisaitl’s increased responsibility and ability to make his linemates better, the Oilers’ depth has improved. Draisaitl can now play a more prominent role on both the power play and penalty kill, helping the team in all situations. This depth allows for more balanced lineups, better matchups, and greater sustainability over the course of an 82-game season.

4. A Bright Future for Draisaitl and the Oilers

As the 2025 season progresses, it is becoming increasingly clear that this new version of Leon Draisaitl will be a key factor in the Oilers’ future success. The combination of his improved two-way play, leadership qualities, physicality, and offensive brilliance makes him one of the most complete players in the NHL today. His growth as a player has not only elevated his individual game but also the play of those around him. For Oilers fans, this is the version of Draisaitl they have always dreamed about—a version that could finally push the team over the hump and into championship contention.

With Draisaitl continuing to evolve, and McDavid also playing at an MVP level, the Oilers are well-positioned to challenge for the Stanley Cup in the coming seasons. As fans continue to watch this new, improved version of Leon Draisaitl, one thing is certain: the best is yet to come.