Oilers Fans Should Expect Draisaitl to Buzz Tonight Against the Capitals
If you’re an Edmonton Oilers fan, you’re probably already wondering what Leon Draisaitl’s going to bring tonight against the Washington Capitals. After missing three games for personal reasons, he was back on Thursday against Pittsburgh, logging just under 20 minutes and firing four shots on goal. No goals, sure—but it was clear he was getting back into the swing of things.
Draisaitl is one of the NHL’s deadliest forwards.
Draisaitl is still one of the league’s deadliest forwards. Last season, he led the NHL with 52 goals, and this year he’s got 25 goals in 49 games, tied for 13th overall. He’s also been a beast on the power play with 11 goals, which is tied for third in the NHL. Translation: when the man’s on, he’s dangerous anywhere on the ice.
Statistically, he’s a freak. NHL EDGE data shows he’s in the 94th percentile or better in skating speed, total distance covered, time in the offensive zone, and midrange goals. Basically, he’s skating more, faster, and spending more time in the spots that hurt opponents most. If he’s feeling good tonight, the Capitals are going to feel it.
Draisaitl always seems to play well against the Capitals.
History also favours Draisaitl in this matchup. In 18 career games against Washington, he’s racked up 23 points, including multipoint nights like the one he had back in November. The guy knows how to find the seams, get the puck to the net, and create opportunities for himself and Connor McDavid.
What to watch for tonight: Draisaitl’s ice time and energy. He had a minus-1 rating in his first game back, which isn’t the end of the world, but the key will be seeing him get comfortable on the ice again. Look for him driving the play in the offensive zone, taking smart shots, and hunting the midrange gaps he loves. He’s not just about scoring; he makes the power play hum and creates chances that keep the opposition off balance.
If Draisaitl plays up to his normal standards, the Capitals are in for a tough night.
If Edmonton gets the regular Draisaitl tonight, and if he’s moving as he did before his leave, Washington has a long night ahead. He may need a shift or two to find his groove, but once he does, expect him to be buzzing in front of the net, firing shots, and setting up McDavid in ways that make fans feel like anything’s possible. This is the player all Oilers’ fans know. He should be itching to remind everyone why he’s one of the best forwards in the game.