Beer League Players Defeat McDavid and Draisaitl in Surreal Offseason Hockey Game

In an unexpected twist, beer league players at the Magna Centre in Newmarket, Ontario, found themselves facing two of the NHL’s top talents Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl of the Edmonton Oilers. The casual weekly game quickly turned into a once-in-a-lifetime experience as the superstar duo suited up to play.

Though the matchup was friendly, the presence of two of the league’s best made for an unforgettable night, especially as the local team outscored the pros.

Local Underdogs Stun NHL Stars in Casual Game Near McDavid’s Childhood Rink

The rink, located just minutes from McDavid’s childhood home, saw the Oilers stars casually take to the ice McDavid even wore his Edmonton jersey. Fans in the stands were shocked to see them playing against their friends and loved ones.

Despite expectations, the NHL players didn’t light up the scoreboard as they usually do. Neither McDavid nor Draisaitl scored a goal, and local players, especially the goalie, made some impressive plays that went viral on social media.

While the Oilers stars weren’t playing at full intensity or showing off their signature skills, the game still surprised many. McDavid and Draisaitl found themselves trailing 4-0 after the first period and eventually lost 6-2. Officials at the rink were informed in advance of their appearance, but the result still stunned everyone. The moment became a feel-good underdog story for the local players, who held their own against two elite professionals.

McDavid Reflects on League Tradition Amid NHL Uncertainty and Offseason Respite

In an interview with ESPN, McDavid shared that this wasn’t his first time joining the league. He’s been playing in it for over a decade, dating back to his junior hockey years. In 2023, he even played in the championship game against a team featuring Quinton Byfield of the Los Angeles Kings. McDavid expressed surprise that this game went viral, saying it’s just a tradition he’s continued with close friends during the offseason.

This local game may have been a welcome distraction for McDavid and Draisaitl after their recent disappointment in the Stanley Cup Final, where the Oilers once again fell short against the Florida Panthers. Looking ahead, Draisaitl is locked in with Edmonton thanks to an eight-year contract extension.

McDavid, however, is entering a pivotal season, as he’s set to become an unrestricted free agent after 2025-26. For now, both stars gave their hometown fans a night to remember on a much smaller stage.