Edmonton Oilers star Leon Draisaitl is taking a brief leave of absence to tend to a family member's illness in Germany. The team announced Saturday that the 30-year-old center is expected to return next week. This marks his first missed game of the 2025-26 season for the Oilers, who face the Canucks without him.

Draisaitl ranks second on Edmonton and fifth in the NHL with 67 points, on pace for his fifth consecutive 100-point campaign. He is a key piece of their potent power play and averaged over 22 minutes of ice time. Coach Kris Knoblauch acknowledged the team will miss his production but fully supports his decision.

Captain Connor McDavid emphasized that family comes first, noting the Oilers have experience filling lineup gaps from last season's injuries. With a busy upcoming schedule, including games against St. Louis, New Jersey, Pittsburgh, and Washington, Edmonton will rely on its depth. The team has requested privacy for Draisaitl and his family.