Leon Draisaitl led the Edmonton Oilers with outstanding performances throughout the 2024-25 NHL season, finishing with an impressive 52 goals and 106 points in 71 games despite battling injuries late in the year. His scoring prowess earned him the Maurice Rocket Richard Trophy as the league‘s top goal scorer, and he ranked third overall in NHL points. This season affirmed why Draisaitl is considered one of the league’s premier talents, underscoring his vital role for the Oilers.
On July 16, Draisaitl was honored as the Best NHL Player at the 2025 ESPYS, making history as the first German-born player and the fourth European overall to receive this accolade. The award continues a streak for the Oilers, who have claimed this title for four consecutive years, with teammate Connor McDavid winning the previous three. Although Draisaitl’s season earned him many accolades, he narrowly missed the Hart Trophy, which was awarded to Connor Hellebuyck.
Elevating Team Performance Through Leadership and Chemistry
Draisaitl’s impact extends beyond his personal statistics, as he consistently elevates the play of those around him. Heading into last offseason, the Oilers sought strong wingers to support him, signing Viktor Arvidsson and Jeff Skinner. However, they were unable to secure stable roles, pushing other players into critical positions alongside Draisaitl. Unlike Connor McDavid, who benefits from established top-six wingers like Ryan Nugent-Hopkins and Zach Hyman, Draisaitl led lines with depth players due to roster challenges.
Much of the season saw Draisaitl centering Vasily Podkolzin and Kasperi Kapanen, who were initially intended as depth options—Podkolzin was acquired for a fourth-round draft pick and Kapanen was added via waivers mid-November. Despite not being star-caliber talents, they developed strong chemistry with Draisaitl. Kapanen contributed speed, while Podkolzin provided a physical, relentless forechecking presence crucial for puck retrieval. Together, their complementary style enabled Draisaitl to remain offensively productive while mentoring his linemates.
Looking ahead to the 2025-26 campaign, Draisaitl is expected to gain a new linemate in young talent Matt Savoie. Part of his ongoing leadership role will be helping to elevate Savoie’s game, continuing his pattern of effectively bringing out the best in new teammates.
Assessing Draisaitl’s Performance Throughout the Season and Playoffs
Draisaitl’s 2024-25 season performance warrants an unequivocal A+ grade, highlighting his dominance in both the regular season and playoffs. His 11 goals and 33 points in 22 playoff games tied him with Connor McDavid as the team’s leading scorer. He also set an NHL record by scoring four overtime goals in a single playoff season, demonstrating his clutch ability on hockey’s biggest stage.
While his overall playoff impact was exceptional, Draisaitl experienced difficulties during Games 5 and 6 of the Stanley Cup Final, a period when the entire Oilers team struggled. He scored a vital overtime goal to tie the series at two games, but ultimately could not carry the team alone against the Florida Panthers’ strong opposition. These moments show the limits of individual effort when sufficient team support is lacking.
Nonetheless, his dominant regular season and sustained playoff excellence were crucial in propelling Edmonton to back-to-back Stanley Cup Finals appearances. His leadership and elite talent form the cornerstone of the team’s ongoing pursuit of championship success.
The Lasting Significance of Draisaitl’s Contributions to the Oilers
Leon Draisaitl’s 2024-25 campaign cements his status as the Oilers’ premier player and one of the NHL’s top stars. His eight-year contract extension, carrying a $14 million cap hit, reflects his value and the organization’s confidence in his role for years to come. By consistently outperforming expectations and lifting his teammates, he remains a central figure in the Oilers’ efforts to build a championship-caliber team.
As the offseason progresses and the team fortifies its roster, the hope remains that Draisaitl’s leadership and skill will continue to inspire the Oilers to reach new heights. His ability to improve those around him and deliver in crucial moments makes him an indispensable asset as Edmonton targets success in future seasons.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Leon Draisaitl the highest paid NHL player?
A. Leon Draisaitl of the Oilers will become the NHL’s highest-paid player when his new contract starts. The Edmonton Oilers have agreed with star center Leon Draisaitl on an eight-year, $112 million US contract extension, announced by the team on Tuesday.