Leon Draisaitl Bio
Leon Tim Draisaitl is a German professional ice hockey player who is a forward and alternate captain for the Edmonton Oilers of the National Hockey League (NHL). In 2020, Draisaitl became the first German player to win the Art Ross Trophy as the leading point scorer in the NHL, the Hart Memorial Trophy as regular season MVP, and the Ted Lindsay Award for most outstanding player. He also won the Maurice ‘Rocket’ Richard Trophy as the league-leading goal-scorer in 2025, establishing his reputation as one of the best players in the NHL.
Early Life and Background
Leon Draisaitl was born on 27 October 1995 in Cologne, Germany, to Peter and Sandra Draisaitl. His father, Peter, was a professional ice hockey player who represented Germany in multiple international competitions, including the Olympics. Growing up, Leon was exposed to ice hockey early on, influenced by his father’s career. He played various sports as a child but developed a keen interest in ice hockey. Draisaitl played with the Kölner Haie under-16 team and the Adler Mannheim under-18 team, showcasing his talent at a young age. During the 2011–12 German Development League season, he recorded 21 goals and 56 points in just 35 games for Jungadler Mannheim, earning the league’s Player of the Year award.
Path to Hockey
Draisaitl’s impressive performance in the German Development League led to his selection as the second overall pick in the 2012 CHL Import Draft by the Prince Albert Raiders of the Western Hockey League (WHL). He continued to excel in junior hockey, and during the 2015 World Junior Championships, he was traded to the Kelowna Rockets. Draisaitl played a pivotal role in helping the Rockets win the 2015 WHL Championship, where he was named playoff MVP after scoring 28 points in 19 games. His success in junior hockey set the stage for his entry into the NHL.
Leon Draisaitl Career
Early Career (2014–2015)
Draisaitl was drafted third overall by the Edmonton Oilers in the 2014 NHL Entry Draft, making him the highest-drafted German-trained player in NHL history. He signed a three-year entry-level contract with the Oilers on 12 August 2014. Draisaitl made his NHL debut on 9 October 2014 against the Calgary Flames, scoring his first NHL goal on 24 October against the Carolina Hurricanes. In his rookie season, he recorded two goals and seven assists in 37 games before being returned to the Prince Albert Raiders.
Breakthrough (2016–2020)
The 2016–17 season marked a significant turning point in Draisaitl’s career. He finished the season with 29 goals and 48 assists, helping the Oilers end a decade-long playoff drought. Draisaitl’s performance in the playoffs was notable, as he scored his first playoff goal and became the second youngest Oiler to score a hat-trick in the Stanley Cup playoffs. His breakout season solidified his status as a key player for the Oilers. In the 2019–20 season, Draisaitl reached new heights, leading the league in scoring with 110 points in 71 games. His outstanding performance earned him the Art Ross Trophy, Hart Memorial Trophy, and Ted Lindsay Award, making him the first German player to achieve these honors.
Notable Works and Milestones
Draisaitl’s signature work includes his remarkable 2019–20 season, where he became the highest-scoring player in the NHL. He was also recognized for his contributions to the Oilers’ success, leading the team to the playoffs multiple times.
Leon Draisaitl Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Leon Draisaitl has received numerous nominations for prestigious awards, reflecting his exceptional skills and contributions to the sport.
Leon Draisaitl Awards Won
Draisaitl has won several significant awards, including the Art Ross Trophy, Hart Memorial Trophy, Ted Lindsay Award, and the Maurice ‘Rocket’ Richard Trophy, highlighting his status as one of the elite players in the NHL.
Leon Draisaitl Family
Leon Draisaitl is married to Canadian actress Celeste Desjardins. The couple announced their engagement in July 2024 and were married in August 2025. Draisaitl has one sister, Kim, who is married to German field hockey player Niklas Wellen.
Personal Life
Draisaitl’s personal life includes his relationship with Celeste Desjardins, with whom he shares a strong bond. He has a dog named Bowie, who has gained popularity on social media. Draisaitl’s commitment to his family and his career is evident in his dedication to the sport and his desire to bring a Stanley Cup title to Edmonton.
