Leon Draisaitl had personal role in Oilers signing European free agent

Joshua Samanski was signed by the Oilers from the Straubing Tigers of the DEL in Germany, Draisaitl's home country.

According to reports from multiple Oilers insiders, Leon Draisaitl was personally involved in a phone call to persuade Samanski to join the Oilers.

Samanski has been hailed as the best available German talent in the DEL. The 23 year old measures at 6'5 and plays center, which are assets themselves.

The big German forward had a breakout season with the Tigers this season, scoring 14 goals and 40 points in 54 games. He has the size and scoring ability, but one concern about him so far is his skating. His big body can protect the puck - but the stride is a concern against better competition.

Samanski is expected to report to the Bakersfield Condors next season to develop his game with the AHL club, with the hopes of developing into an NHL player in the future.

It's refreshing to see the Oilers beginning to explore new avenues to acquire players and prospects while in contention. If any of these players can make the NHL roster and make an impact, it will be a huge value added at no cost in draft assets to acquire them.

An endorsement and recruitment from Draisaitl is a nice welcome to Edmonton, and hopefully the beginning of a successful North American career.