NHL Star Draisaitl Honored, Outshone by Amateur Competition
In a surprising turn of events, star hockey players Leon Draisaitl and Connor McDavid of the Edmonton Oilers found themselves on the losing end of a pick-up game in Newmarket, Ontario, on July 17, 2025. The duo, known for their impressive performances on the ice, faced a team of recreational players at the Magna Centre in Newmarket, with the final score revealing a decisive 6-2 victory for the amateurs [2].
The identities of the opposing team members were not disclosed in the available reports. However, local media covered the event, which took place at a rink in Newmarket [3]. Despite their NHL pedigree, Draisaitl and McDavid did not contribute any goals to their team's tally [2].
Meanwhile, the sports world celebrated the achievements of various athletes at the 33rd annual ESPY awards held in Los Angeles. Leon Draisaitl was honoured as the best NHL player in the US, marking a significant milestone in his career. The award recognises outstanding achievements in sports and its surrounding areas [1]. The ESPY awards also honoured Simone Biles as the best female athlete of the year, Shai Gilgeous- Alexander as the best male athlete of the year, and Formula 1 driver Max Verstappen at the prestigious ceremony [4].
Interestingly, Dirk Nowitzki, the legendary NBA player, was also recognised at the ESPY awards in 2011. He was honoured as the best male athlete and best NBA player after winning the championship with the Dallas Mavericks [5].
In a separate development, footage emerged on cellphone videos of Draisaitl and McDavid wearing white jerseys without names or numbers, playing in the pick-up game [3]. The ESPN sports network maintained its decision to award Draisaitl as the best NHL player, despite the unexpected loss [1].
[1] ESPN [2] Local Media Reports [3] Cellphone Footage [4] ESPY Awards Official Website [5] Dallas Mavericks Official Website
Despite their loss in a pick-up game against recreational players in Newmarket, Ontario, Leon Draisaitl and Connor McDavid were still honored for their NHL skills, with Draisaitl receiving the title of the best NHL player in the US at the 33rd annual ESPY awards. The sports event, held in Los Angeles, celebrated the achievements of various athletes across multiple sports, including hockey, gymnastics, basketball, and Formula 1.
