In Photos: Oilers’ Connor McDavid shares off-season workout highlights with best buddy Leon Draisaitl

By Nestor Quixtan

Modified Jul 19, 2024 22:20 GMT

Edmonton Oilers captain Connor McDavid isn’t wasting any time getting ready for next season. In a recent IG post, McDavid shared photos of his offseason workout regimen with none other than teammate Leon Draisaitl.

Both Oilers stars are taking the time to stay in shape during the offseason. In the post, McDavid and Draisaitl can be seen working at the gym, stretching and staying loose. In a reel, McDavid and Draisaitl engage in various types of exercises designed to keep fit off the ice.

Both McDavid and Draisaitl are known for their strong work ethics. It’s their work ethic that’s kept them consistently in the top five in NHL scoring over the past few seasons.

Now, there’s added motivation as the Oilers came to within one game of the Stanley Cup. This time around, Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl will be looking to lead their talented supporting cast to another deep playoff run.

However, that playoff run begins with getting ready before the season starts. Training camps open in September, meaning McDavid and Draisaitl have a few weeks to relax while doing their best to stay in shape as the offseason unfolds.

Despite some question marks surrounding the club, there’s no reason to believe that the Edmonton Oilers won’t be a force in the Western Conference next season.

Connor McDavid’s work ethic second to none

In a 2023 piece, NHL.com captured defenseman Sean Durzi’s comments regarding his impressions of Connor McDavid hitting the gym during the offseason. The comments came on the heels of their meeting during Zach Human’s annual charity golf event.

Durzi recalled running into McDavid at the gym during the event. His observations prompted him to state the following:

“The work ethic stands out. To be able to go on the ice with him, with them, every day, and be in the gym pushing each other, it’s second to none that I’ve seen.”

After all, it’s one thing to have teammates praise McDavid’s work ethic. But when that praise comes from opponents, it’s even more meaningful. Durzi concluded his comments by stating:

“When you’ve got guys who are the best in the world and see how hard they work, it’s good motivation for everyone in the group.”

Since the comments in 2023, Durzi has elevated his game, making him one of the league’s best defensemen. He recently signed a big contract extension with the Utah Hockey Club this offseason.

Durzi and the rest of the NHL will get to witness Connor McDavid’s relentless work ethic as the Edmonton Oilers continue to march forward on their quest for a Stanely Cup.