Just weeks ago, Leon Draisaitl and Tim Stutzle wore the same jersey and chased Olympic glory together. Now, the German stars are back to being fierce NHL competitors, carrying lessons learned from their unforgettable time in Italy.
The bond formed during the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics has given both players a new appreciation for each other. But as the NHL playoff race heats up, friendship takes a backseat to business.
Olympic Brotherhood Forged in Italy
The 2026 Winter Olympics marked a historic moment for German hockey. Draisaitl, the Edmonton Oilers superstar, served as Team Germany’s flag bearer during the opening ceremonies in Milan. It was a proud moment for the 29 year old who has spent years elevating his country’s hockey profile on the world stage.
For Stutzle, playing alongside Draisaitl was a masterclass in professionalism.
“He was awesome, he was a great leader,” the Ottawa Senators forward said. “I knew him from before, but obviously not as well as now, spending every day with him.”
The experience went beyond the ice. Stutzle watched Draisaitl’s daily habits closely.
“I had a lot of fun, and he’s just a pro, does everything the right way,” Stutzle explained. “Just seeing him get to work every day, how he prepares for games, was awesome to see.”
Team Germany’s Olympic run included some memorable performances:
- Tim Stutzle: 4 goals, 2 assists, averaging 21:55 ice time per game
- Leon Draisaitl: 1 goal, 2 assists, served as team’s first line center
- Team Result: Advanced to quarter finals before falling 6 to 2 against Slovakia
Stutzle Emerged as Germany’s Top Offensive Threat
While Draisaitl carried the leadership burden, Stutzle delivered on the scoreboard. The 24 year old Ottawa Senators center posted six points in the tournament and logged heavy minutes against top competition.
His offensive explosion surprised few who follow the NHL closely. Stutzle has developed into one of the league’s most exciting young talents since being drafted third overall in 2020.
Playing on a line with Draisaitl unlocked new dimensions in his game.
“It’s been fun watching him and fun to get a chance to play with him, as well,” Stutzle said about his more experienced teammate.
The quarter final loss to Slovakia stung both players deeply. Germany had entered the tournament with legitimate medal hopes, riding the star power of their NHL contingent.
“It was obviously awesome. Not the end we were kind of hoping for, but I had a great time,” Stutzle reflected. “It was fun playing some big games over there, especially with Germany. It’s a huge honour to represent my country.”
Back to NHL Reality and Playoff Races
The Olympic break provided a brief pause from the grueling NHL season. But both German stars returned to their respective clubs with urgent missions ahead.
Draisaitl and the Edmonton Oilers are pushing for another deep playoff run after reaching the Stanley Cup Final in 2024. The Oilers have built their franchise around Draisaitl and Connor McDavid, two of hockey’s most dominant players.
Stutzle faces a different challenge in Ottawa. The Senators are fighting to secure a playoff spot in the competitive Eastern Conference.
“Coming back here now, I was really looking forward to that playoff push and giving it everything I have,” Stutzle said. “So, I’m really excited to be back, too.”
The transition from Olympic teammate to NHL opponent happened quickly. Both players had to mentally shift gears within days of returning from Italy.
| Player | NHL Team | 2025-26 Role | Olympic Role |
|---|---|---|---|
| Leon Draisaitl | Edmonton Oilers | First Line Center | Team Captain, First Line Center |
| Tim Stutzle | Ottawa Senators | First Line Center | Top Six Forward |
Living Arrangements and Olympic Village Life
The Milano Cortina experience gave NHL players a taste of traditional Olympic atmosphere. Unlike other international tournaments where players stay in luxury hotels, the Winter Games housed athletes in the Olympic Village.
“Almost every NHL guy had his own room,” Stutzle revealed about the accommodations.
The setup allowed German players to bond in ways that normal international events do not permit. Sharing meals, traveling together, and experiencing the Olympic spirit created lasting memories.
For Stutzle, returning to his own bed in Ottawa was a welcome relief after the communal living situation. But the connections made during those weeks will remain important throughout his career.
The age gap between the two stars adds another layer to their relationship. At 29, Draisaitl represents where Stutzle hopes to be in five years. The younger player absorbed every lesson possible during their time together.
German Hockey Continues Rising on World Stage
The partnership between Draisaitl and Stutzle symbolizes Germany’s growing hockey power. Once considered a second tier hockey nation, Germany has produced consistent NHL talent over the past decade.
Draisaitl’s Hart Trophy win in 2020 marked a breakthrough moment for German hockey. Now Stutzle is following a similar path toward superstar status.
Their Olympic performance, despite the quarter final exit, proved Germany can compete with traditional hockey powers. The future looks bright with both players in their prime years.
When the Oilers and Senators meet next, the handshakes will be warmer than usual. The rivalry remains, but respect runs deeper now.
German hockey fans witnessed something special in Italy. Two of their best players shared a locker room and pushed each other to excel. That experience will fuel both careers for years to come. Drop a comment below sharing your thoughts on Germany’s Olympic hockey future and which German star you think will have a bigger impact this playoff season.
