Edmonton Oilers: Leon Draisaitl continues to keep it real
When it comes to the Edmonton Oilers, the mantra you’ll be hearing a lot about is taking this short, 56-game season, one game at a time. It’s hard for even the most diehard of Oilers fans to truly embrace this mentality but in the grand scheme of things, it’s what is needed if this team is to have a shot at going the distance.
Alternative captain Leon Draisaitl knows that if the Oilers are to get through this regular season and head into the NHL Playoffs, it’s all about keeping it real. Yes, the Oilers have undoubtedly struggled early on this season but head coach Dave Tippett has kept everyone in check. He’s making smart roster decisions, the right adjustments in the heat of the moment during hockey games, and best of all, trusting his leaders on the team.
Draisaitl not only has the respect of the locker room but is known to always speak his mind. Whether it’s giving praise to a teammate or letting the media know his thoughts, it’s nice to see him always speak his mind during these big turning points of the season.
Leon Draisaitl knows the Edmonton Oilers will continue to grow together
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With lows come highs during a hockey season as the Oilers have pretty much experienced both ends of the spectrum and then some.
Luckily, Draisaitl knows that during these times, it’s all about keeping it real and handling everything in stride together, as a team.
In an article written by Zach Laing of Oilers Nation, here’s what Draisaitl had to say about the current state of the Oilers:
"“To go through games like this, face adversity at times, come back (and) be able to change your game around in the middle of the game,” said Turris, “those are all the experiences you want to accumulate over the course of a season so come playoff time, you’re hot at the right time and any challenge you’re faced with, you’re experienced and have gone through it as a group together.”"
It’s a great sight to see that at the end of the day, Draisaitl knows there is still a ton of hockey left to be played. Taking the season one game at a time means that you’ll learn so much about a team’s identity based on how they react after every win and loss. From what the hockey world has seen so far this season, everyone has handled themselves well and are focused on getting the job done game in, game out.
light. Hot. Leon Draisaitl delivers when it matters most for the Oilers
Overall, one has to admire the leadership we see here by Draisaitl as it’s going to resonate well across his teammates. This message of accountability, growth, and execution is the true definition of what it truly takes to build a contender. They all want to win, they all want to do their best, and best of all, we all see their efforts, hustle, and potential to make this season memorable.