Leon Draisaitl Joins Elite NHL 1,000-Point Club: Edmonton Oilers Celebrate Historic Milestone
On Saturday night, as the Edmonton Oilers prepared to face off against the Los Angeles Kings at Rogers Place, the energy in the building was palpable—not just for the high-stakes game ahead but for a historic milestone that had fans buzzing long before the puck dropped. Leon Draisaitl, one of the NHL’s premier talents and a cornerstone of the Oilers’ success in recent years, was honored for achieving a monumental career milestone: joining the NHL’s exclusive 1,000-point club.
Draisaitl, a German-born forward who has played his entire NHL career with the Oilers, reached this incredible feat in the most fitting way—by contributing another key assist in what was already an outstanding career. His journey to 1,000 points has been a testament to not only his individual brilliance but also his consistency, versatility, and leadership on the ice.
A Career Defined by Excellence
Leon Draisaitl’s path to the 1,000-point milestone is one marked by extraordinary achievements, not just for a single season but across multiple years. Drafted by the Oilers 3rd overall in the 2014 NHL Draft, Draisaitl wasted no time proving that he was no ordinary prospect. In just his second season in the league (2015-16), Draisaitl registered 51 points, showcasing his elite playmaking ability. However, it was his breakout year in 2017-18 that truly put him on the map.
During that season, Draisaitl posted 70 points, including a career-high 29 goals. But it wasn’t just about the points for Draisaitl. His two-way game, physicality, and ability to rise to the occasion in big moments made him a key figure for the Oilers. Still, it was his chemistry with fellow superstar Connor McDavid that elevated both players’ games to another level. Together, they formed one of the most dynamic duos in the NHL, with Draisaitl often taking on a more prominent role in certain offensive situations, thanks to his unique combination of size, vision, and offensive instincts.
In the years that followed, Draisaitl continued to establish himself as one of the league’s top players. His 2019-20 season was especially noteworthy. Draisaitl captured the Hart Memorial Trophy (MVP) after a remarkable campaign in which he tallied 110 points in just 71 games, leading the league in scoring. This was further evidence that Draisaitl was not just an elite player in Edmonton, but a force to be reckoned with on the global stage.
The Road to 1,000 Points
Reaching 1,000 career points in the NHL is an extraordinary accomplishment that only the most gifted and consistent players achieve. When you look at the names who have reached that plateau, you find a list of hockey legends, from Wayne Gretzky and Mario Lemieux to current stars like Sidney Crosby and Alex Ovechkin. Joining that group is no small feat, and for Draisaitl, it marks a defining moment in his career.
What’s perhaps even more impressive is the manner in which Draisaitl has achieved this milestone. The 1,000th point came not as a result of a flashy one-off game but as part of a long, sustained period of excellence. Draisaitl’s ability to consistently produce offensively—whether as a goal scorer, playmaker, or both—has made him one of the league’s most complete forwards. He doesn’t rely on luck or the occasional hot streak; rather, he has found a way to deliver night in and night out, regardless of the circumstances.
Moreover, the milestone speaks to his growth as a leader. As the Oilers’ game against the Kings approached, Draisaitl had firmly established himself as one of the key players on a team with Stanley Cup aspirations. His ability to elevate his teammates and remain composed in clutch moments has made him not just a point producer but also an integral part of the Oilers’ leadership group.
The Oilers’ Celebration: A Night to Remember
Before the game against the Kings, the Oilers took a moment to recognize Draisaitl’s achievement, and the celebration was a fitting tribute to his contribution to the franchise. Family, friends, teammates, and the Edmonton faithful gathered to cheer on Draisaitl, who was clearly moved by the outpouring of love and support.
The Oilers presented Draisaitl with a commemorative plaque to mark the occasion, and fans inside Rogers Place showered him with applause as he took a moment to acknowledge the incredible milestone. It was a moment of reflection for Draisaitl, who has always remained humble despite his immense success.
“I’m truly honored and grateful for this achievement,” Draisaitl said in his speech following the ceremony. “It wouldn’t have been possible without my teammates, coaches, and everyone who has supported me along the way. This city, this organization, and the fans have been amazing, and I’m just thankful to be