Family and Early Life

Leon Draisaitl is the son of Peter Draisaitl, a former member of the German national ice hockey team. Peter represented Germany in 146 international games, including appearances at multiple World Championships, the World Cup of Hockey, and the Winter Olympic Games in 1988, 1992, and 1998.

Growing up in Cologne, Germany, Draisaitl developed a deep passion for hockey. He trained rigorously from a young age and benefited from the coaching and mentorship of experienced players and coaches within Germany’s youth hockey system.

Development in Germany

In the 2011–12 season, Draisaitl played for the Jungadler Mannheim U18 team in the German Development League (DNL). He delivered an outstanding performance throughout the season, helping lead his team to a DNL Championship. For his efforts, he was named the DNL Player of the Year, an honor that recognized his status as one of Germany’s top young hockey talents.

Transition to North America

To further his development and increase his exposure, Draisaitl moved to North America, where he was selected second overall in the 2012 Canadian Hockey League (CHL) Import Draft by the Prince Albert Raiders of the Western Hockey League (WHL). Over two seasons with the Raiders, he established himself as a dominant offensive force, catching the attention of NHL scouts.

Edmonton Oilers and NHL Draft

In the 2014 NHL Entry Draft, the Edmonton Oilers selected Draisaitl with the third overall pick. This selection made him the highest-drafted German-trained player in NHL history. Although Dany Heatley was drafted second overall in 2000, he was raised in Canada despite being born in Germany. Draisaitl’s high selection marked a significant milestone for German ice hockey players making their way to the NHL.