Leon Draisaitl is set to become the face of a major NHL push into Germany, and the Edmonton Oilers are coming with him.
The NHL and FC Bayern have launched a multi-year partnership built around hockey, soccer, and the crossover between two huge fan bases. The plan includes events, social media, youth programs, merchandise, watch parties, and other fan experiences designed to grow hockey interest in Germany while also giving FC Bayern a stronger link to North American fans.
Draisaitl was part of the announcement at FC Bayern’s training facility in Munich alongside German NHL star JJ Peterka and Bayern player Alphonso Davies. His presence fits the moment perfectly. He is one of the NHL’s top players, one of Germany’s biggest hockey names, and one of the sport’s most recognizable stars.
For Edmonton, the partnership carries an extra layer of meaning. As part of the NHL’s 2027-28 Global Series, the Oilers will play two regular-season games in Cologne at Lanxess Arena.
That matters because Cologne is Draisaitl’s hometown, turning the trip into more than just another overseas showcase. It becomes a return to where one of the franchise’s most important players grew up.
The weekend in Germany is set up to be a big one. Draisaitl will be back on home ice in front of friends, family, and German hockey fans, and the NHL is likely to make the most of that storyline. It gives the league a natural way to spotlight both the player and the team.
The partnership is also going beyond the rink. Street hockey events in Munich, watch parties, appearances, youth programming, and activities at Bayern’s Allianz Arena are all part of the plan. The goal is a lasting connection, not just a jersey sale or a one-off event.
Edmonton’s Germany trip won’t happen until 2027-28. Before that, Düsseldorf will host games between the Ottawa Senators and the Chicago Blackhawks on Dec. 18 and 20, 2026. But when the Oilers finally arrive in Cologne, Draisaitl will give the whole thing a hometown feel the NHL can build around.
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