We now know if Leon Drasaitl would be ready to join Team Canada for the Four Nations Face-Off
Photo credit: Sportsnet
Several weeks ago, former Pittsburgh Penguins forward who is now a broadcaster, Colby Armstrong sat down with Edmonton Oilers superstar Leon Draisaitl to chat about his new contract, life in Canada and the upcoming Four Nations Face-Off.
During their conversation on On the Couch with Colby, Armstrong jokingly asked Draisaitl if he'd consider playing for Team Canada in the tournament.
Draisaitl's response was straightforward:
«I'm German. I'll stick to that, sorry, dude.» Leon Draisaitl sat down with @armdog
to discuss his new contract, Leon getting a Canadian passport, and more! | On the Couch with Colby presented by BODYARMOR Sports Drink.
to discuss his new contract, Leon getting a Canadian passport, and more! | On the Couch with Colby presented by BODYARMOR Sports Drink.
Leon Draisaitl's absence from the Four Nations Face-Off shows a broader issue with the tournament's format as of now.
The inaugural event only includes Canada, the United States, Sweden and Finland which is leaving out hockey powerhouses like Germany, Czechia and Russia.
This decision excludes elite NHL players like Draisaitl, Tim Stutzle and David Pastrnak and has sparked criticism from fans and analysts who argue for a more inclusive World Cup-style format.
Many believe the NHL will eventually expand the tournament to show more nations and even revive the "Team Europe" concept from past international competitions.
While the Four Nations Face-Off is about to begin, Draisaitl will enjoy a brief break from NHL action.
The Oilers' star is having another excellent season by already netting 40 goals in 2024-25 and pushing for a third consecutive 50+ goal campaign and a pace that suggests he could even reach 60.
Though he won't be representing Germany in this tournament, Draisaitl's dominance on the ice remains undeniable and fans hope to see him in future international competitions if the NHL enlarge their structure.
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