Leon Draisaitl Eyes Kopitar’s Legacy, Embraces Two-Way Excellence
Leon Draisaitl, one of the NHL’s premier offensive talents, is looking beyond goal totals. He’s setting his sights on a more complete game, inspired by the impending retirement of Los Angeles Kings captain Anze Kopitar. Draisaitl recently reached out to Kopitar following the declaration of his final season, signaling a passing of the torch in the Western Conference.
For years, Kopitar has embodied the two-way dominance previously defined by Patrice Bergeron. Now, Draisaitl aspires to inherit that mantle, adding defensive prowess to his already notable offensive skillset. He views Kopitar as a long-time idol, learning invaluable lessons simply by competing against him.
A Mentorship Forged in Competition & Friendship
Draisaitl’s admiration for Kopitar extends beyond the rink. He had the opportunity to play alongside Kopitar at the 2016 World Cup, were the veteran took the young star under his wing. This experience blossomed into a lasting friendship.
“Kopy was always my idol, growing up,” Draisaitl explained. “I’ve learned so much from playing against him, watching him. We’ve had a close friendship ever as.”
The Pursuit of Complete Game Mastery
Kopitar’s two-way game is widely considered elite. draisaitl wholeheartedly agrees, recognizing its consistency as a key component of Kopitar’s success. He acknowledges his own journey toward this level of all-around play.
“It’s as good as it gets,” Draisaitl stated. “It’s the consistency part. He’s done it for a long time - every day, every game. I’m at a point where I’m the same way.”
Draisaitl’s offensive numbers speak for themselves. He was the only player to reach 50 goals and 100 points last season. Over the past five seasons, he ranks second in the NHL in both goals (231) and points (534). Though, he understands that true greatness requires defensive responsibility.
Setting Sights on the Selke Trophy
Draisaitl has a clear goal for the upcoming season: to enter the conversation for the Selke Trophy. This award recognizes the league’s best defensive forwards. He understands the work required to achieve this recognition.
“I’d like to be in the Selke conversation at the end of this year,” he said. “There are a lot of things that go into that, and a lot of things I can learn and get better at. But there are also a lot of things I think do well already.”
A Career on the Cusp of History
At 30 years old, Draisaitl is entering his prime. He’s already amassed 790 regular season games and 96 playoff games. he’s poised to reach important milestones, including his 400th goal and 1,000th point.
Despite his offensive dominance – consistently ranking among the top 3-5 players in the world – Draisaitl has embraced the importance of a well-rounded game. This shift reflects a maturation process common among hockey’s elite.
From Flashy Offense to All-Around Impact
Initially, many young, offensively gifted players prioritize scoring and highlight-reel plays. Draisaitl acknowledges this natural inclination. however, experience teaches that defensive contributions and all-around play are equally rewarding.
“Every player coming into the league… in the first couple of years you want to put up numbers,” he explained.”But with age you learn,the other parts of the game are just as much fun.”
He finds satisfaction in the subtle aspects of the game. “Stripping someone, playing good defense… It’s a lot of work, but a lot of fun.”
Looking Ahead: Oilers Prepare for Preseason
the Edmonton oilers will hold a scrimmage on Saturday. This will be followed by a pair of split-squad games against the Calgary Flames on Sunday evening, marking the start of their preseason schedule. These games will provide an early
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