Leon Draisaitl sends a clear message about filling McDavid's shoes

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Finnegan Frost
November 3, 2024 (6:42)

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The Edmonton Oilers are facing off against the Calgary Flames to night for the BOA (Battle of Alberta) and Leon Draisaitl makes it clear he's ready to step up in the absence of Connor McDavid.

The Edmonton Oilers are coming off an impressive showing against the Nashville Predators last Thursday, dominating them by a score of 5-1. During the game, Oilers superstar star Leon Draisaitl notched 2 goals and assist, helping the team get back to a .500 record.

Despite the game being against a struggling Nashville team, it was arguably the biggest test for the team so far. Although captain Connor McDavid is expected to miss another 2-3 weeks due to a lower body injury, Leon Draisaitl has made it extremely clear he's ready to take on the leadership role to fill the void during McDavid's absence.

"Yeah, I mean, I think a little bit, you know, obviously we have different leaders in this group, and we're all looking to contribute in our own way. And obviously, you, when he's out puts a little bit more pressure on me, but I love those situations, and I think I've always been good at stepping up in those moments.
-Leon Draisaitl

Draisaitl mentions that Connor McDavid is an irreplaceable member of the team, but acknowledged other players need to band together in order to find different ways to contribute. Although the absence of captain Connor McDavid leaves a gaping hole on the team's roster, Draisaitl admits that it generates a great opportunity for the depth players to step up and help the team.

During an interview, Leon Draisaitl discusses the new found chemistry with his line mates, Viktor Arvidsson and Vasily Podkolzin. Podkolzin has recently been promoted to the Oilers top 6, the the second line has been firing on all cylinders.

"With the exception of last of last game (6-1 loss to Columbus) that last four games have been really, really good. I think we're connecting. We create a lot of looks. I think all three of us would like to finish a little better. I think theres a lot of looks we can put in the net, but I think we're finding eachother. We're reading off eachother. I've really enjoyed playing with them."

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