Oilers star Leon Draisaitl is competing in the Olympics with Team Germany, and this means a lot to him right now.
Not long ago, Leon took a break from playing with the Oilers for six days to return to Germany and support a family member who is sick. It must have been a tough situation for the Draisaitl family.
Leon Draisaitl chats about playing for Germany after his family break
While at the Olympics today, Leon spoke with TSN’s Ryan Rishaug and was asked how it feels to represent his country after his family matters.
RISHAUG: After you returned from Germany to deal with your family situation, you mentioned how your views changed… with everything that happened, what does it feel like to be here?
DRAISAITL: In the end, this is something I’ve always wanted to do. I feel really lucky and grateful to have this chance. But as I mentioned, family comes first and that’s what truly matters. I’m really lucky to enjoy this experience with some of my closest friends and those I played with while growing up.
– Leon Draisaitl
When Leon got back, there was no clear news about his family member’s health. Representing his country while holding family close in his heart makes the Olympic Games even more special for him this time.
Leon also shared how meaningful it was to be the flag bearer for Germany. It was a memorable experience, a highlight in his career, and it was all for his home country.
It was incredible. First off, it was such an honor to carry the flag and be surrounded by all the athletes, meeting and talking to them. Germany has some outstanding athletes, so I feel really privileged to do this, and it’s something I will never forget.
– Leon Draisaitl
It will be exciting to see Draisaitl play at the highest level for the first time in his NHL career, and hopefully, he can help a less recognized Team Germany achieve one of their best results in Olympic history.
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