Speaking to the media before Game 6, Draisaitl recognized that his play hasn't been up to standard, and said that he will come into the series tonight.
Draisaitl's been playing the majority of the time on the second line separated from McDavid, and hasn't found a way to create offence through this series. Draisaitl's been given a revolving cast of wingers on his side, but he denied that would have any effect on his expectations - no matter his linemates, Draisaitl knows he needs to produce.
Draisaitl fully owning up to his struggles so far and guaranteeing that he will be more effective tonight is a fantastic sign for the Oilers. He may be pushing through injury or struggling with Florida's checking, but Draisaitl has the elite talent to alter the outcome of a series. If he's ticked off and ready to play tonight, that's exactly what the Oilers are looking for.
Tonight is easily the biggest game in this Edmonton Oilers era. A win can force a Game 7 and shift all the pressure onto the Panthers to not choke the series lead, while Edmonton gets another shot of confidence. If they lose, the comeback dream is done, and Matthew Tkachuk will lift the Stanley Cup in Edmonton. The entire sports world is watching closely to see what story comes out of tonight.
Source: Edmonton Oilers YouTube
Leon Draisaitl says that he will enter the series tonight
POLL | ||
Do you think Draisaitl will play better tonight, or will his struggles continue? | ||
Draisaitl will be better | 329 | 82.5 % |
No, Draisaitl is struggling still | 59 | 14.8 % |
See Results | 11 | 2.8 % |
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