Leon Draisaitl and Connor McDavid Shockingly Lose Beer League Game in Newmarket Despite NHL Stardom

Leon Draisaitl and Connor McDavid, two of the NHL’s brightest stars, experienced a surprising beer league loss while playing at the Magna Centre in Newmarket, Ontario, McDavid’s hometown. The game, held recently, saw their team fall 6-2 against a local beer league squad, drawing attention due to the rarity of NHL superstars being bested in such a setting.

Usually, only top NHL teams like the Florida Panthers could challenge players of McDavid and Draisaitl’s caliber. However, this occasion highlighted how even highly skilled athletes can face tough competition in casual games, adding a unique twist to their post-season activities.

Game Highlights and Atmosphere at the Magna Centre

Despite not scoring any goals, McDavid and Draisaitl provided fans and fellow players with an exciting experience. The crowd, including many children, enjoyed seeing the two Hart Trophy winners in action, showcasing their skills outside the NHL spotlight. According to video coverage from BarDown, the atmosphere was lively, emphasizing fun and engagement over competition.

After the game, referees shared their impressions of officiating a match featuring two players who have dominated the NHL in recent years. One official remarked,

“Honestly, it’s incredible to see them coming down the ice,”

while another added,

“Just really cool to be on the ice with them, kind of starstruck at the end of the day,”

highlighting the unique experience of overseeing a game with such elite athletes.

When asked if they were surprised that McDavid and Draisaitl didn’t manage to score, one referee acknowledged the opposing goalie’s exceptional performance, stating,

“That goalie stood on his head out there, so … not too shocked, actually,”

attributing the beer league team’s success largely to their goaltender’s efforts.

Career Achievements Underline the Players’ NHL Impact

Coming off their second consecutive Stanley Cup Final appearance with the Edmonton Oilers, both superstars bring impressive career statistics. Last season alone, Draisaitl led the team with 52 goals and 106 points, while McDavid contributed 74 assists, finishing with 100 points. Together, they have amassed an extraordinary total of 760 goals and 1,278 assists over 1,502 regular-season games.

Their playoff contributions are equally notable, with 96 goals and 195 assists in 192 games, reflecting their consistency in high-pressure environments. The duo’s trophy cabinet boasts six Art Ross Trophies, four Hart Trophies, two Maurice Rocket Richard Trophies, and five Ted Lindsay Awards, underlining their dominance in the league.

Other NHL Stars Also Participate in Local Beer League Games

On the same evening, Evgeny Kuznetsov, a two-time NHL All-Star and Stanley Cup champion, took part in a separate beer league game at the MedStar Capitals Iceplex in Arlington County, Virginia. Kuznetsov’s presence surprised some, with goalie Josh Williams commenting to the Capitals fan blog Russian Machine Never Breaks,

“It’s unclear how or why he ended up playing,”

and

“Like we don’t know his connection to the Moose or if he knew anybody on that team.”

Kuznetsov has played 743 NHL games, accumulating 173 goals and 402 assists with the Washington Capitals and Carolina Hurricanes. His standout season came in 2017-18 with 27 goals and 56 assists, and his playoff performance contributed significantly to the Capitals’ Stanley Cup victory.

The Significance of NHL Players Engaging in Community-Level Hockey

These appearances by NHL stars in local beer league games emphasize their connection to the game beyond professional arenas. While the outcomes may not always favor the celebrities, the events create memorable moments for fans and young players, inspiring community involvement and celebrating the sport at all levels.

For McDavid and Draisaitl, the beer league loss serves as a reminder that hockey is a game anyone can enjoy, regardless of professional status. Their participation highlights the inclusive spirit of hockey and offers a glimpse of the personalities behind their superstar reputations. As their NHL careers continue, these local engagements also enhance their visibility and approachability within their hometowns and fan bases.