Background

Leon Draisaitl is the child of former German national team player, Peter Draisaitl. His father represented Germany in 146 matches, including at World Championships, the World Cup, and at the 1988, 1992 and 1998 Olympic Winter Games.

Draisaitl grew up playing hockey in Germany where he had great practice with his friends and mentors.

Career

Before moving to North America to proceed with his playing career, Draisaitl spent the 2011– 12 season in the German Development League (DNL) with the Jungadler Mannheim Under 18 group, driving his team to catch the DNL Championship. He was honored and praises for his extraordinary performance by being named the DNL Player of the Year.

Leon was selected second overall in the 2012 CHL Import Draft by the Prince Albert Raiders. After two seasons with the Raiders, he was picked third overall by the Edmonton Oilers in the 2014 NHL Entry Draft.

When he was drafted with the third pick, it made him the highest drafted German-born player in NHL history. Dany Heatley, who was chosen second in 2000 was born in Germany however was raised in Canada