The National Hockey League (NHL) has officially announced that the Edmonton Oilers, featuring star forward Leon Draisaitl, will participate in the 2027 NHL Global Series in Germany. This event will see Draisaitl return to his hometown of Cologne for a regular-season game during the 2027-28 NHL season. This initiative reflects the NHL's commitment to expanding its global reach and connecting with international fan bases, particularly in countries with burgeoning ice hockey interest. Draisaitl's homecoming is anticipated to be an emotional and significant occasion, drawing considerable attention from German hockey enthusiasts and offering a unique opportunity for local fans to witness top-tier NHL action firsthand.
Beyond the Oilers, the Boston Bruins are also slated to play in Germany as part of the same Global Series, with their game scheduled for Munich. This broader effort underscores the NHL's strategy to engage more deeply with the European market, showcasing its premier talent and fostering stronger ties with hockey communities abroad. The inclusion of German-born players and coaches like Draisaitl, Marco Sturm, and J.J. Peterka in these games further amplifies the personal and cultural significance of the series. Such international matchups not only provide thrilling entertainment but also serve as powerful catalysts for promoting the sport and inspiring future generations of players in these regions.
Leon Draisaitl's Enthusiastic Return to His German Roots
Leon Draisaitl, the prominent forward for the Edmonton Oilers, is slated for a deeply personal return to his native Germany as part of the 2027 NHL Global Series. This highly anticipated event will see the Oilers compete in Cologne, Draisaitl's birthplace, during the 2027-28 NHL season. This announcement has generated considerable excitement, particularly for Draisaitl himself, who has openly shared his enthusiasm for the opportunity to play a regular-season NHL game in front of his family and friends. His participation is not merely a sports event but a celebration of his journey and a significant moment for German ice hockey, which he believes holds immense untapped potential.
Draisaitl's sentiments highlight a broader strategic vision, as he expressed pride in the collaboration between the NHL and FC Bayern, viewing it as a powerful message for both Germany and the league. NHL Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly echoed this optimism, emphasizing the league's ongoing commitment to international play and its confidence in achieving substantial success in Germany, building on previous engagements. The Oilers are yet to learn their opponent for this international clash, but they hope to enter the game following a more successful 2026-27 season, aiming to improve upon their performance in 2025-26, which saw them eliminated in the initial playoff round.
The NHL's Broader European Expansion: Germany as a Key Hub
The 2027 NHL Global Series extends beyond just the Edmonton Oilers, with the Boston Bruins also confirmed to play a game in Munich, Germany. This multi-city approach underscores the NHL's strategic commitment to nurturing its European fan base and strengthening its global presence. The Bruins' roster will notably feature German-born head coach Marco Sturm and recently acquired forward J.J. Peterka, making their respective returns to their home country. These games are not simply exhibition matches but are designed to create meaningful connections between NHL players and the vibrant German hockey market, leveraging the personal stories of these athletes to engage local communities.
NHLPA executive director Marty Walsh emphasized that these Global Series games are part of a continuous effort by the League and the NHL Players' Association to build robust relationships. Germany has a rich history with ice hockey, having hosted several NHL regular-season games in the past, starting with the Los Angeles Kings and Buffalo Sabres in 2011. The upcoming 2027 series will mark Germany's fourth, fifth, sixth, and seventh regular-season NHL games, further solidifying its role as a crucial hub for the league's international initiatives. This sustained engagement is vital for cultivating fan loyalty and inspiring the growth of ice hockey across Europe.
