The festive spirit in Edmonton extended beyond the decorated arenas as the city's hockey heroes traded the bright NHL lights for the simple charm of an outdoor rink. On the night before Christmas, Edmonton Oilers superstars Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, and Mattias Ekholm, along with their partners, created a heartwarming moment that captivated the sports community.
A Christmas Eve Gathering Away from the Spotlight
Tired of the constant pressure and media glare of the professional season, the group sought a pure, simple celebration. They chose an outdoor rink (ODR) in Edmonton for a relaxed skate, blending winter, Christmas, and good company. This was not about rivalry or training; it was purely about sharing joy and enjoying the holiday season together in an authentic, unfiltered setting.
The occasion first came to light through social media, offering fans a rare, intimate glimpse into the players' lives off the ice. The festive skate appeared on Instagram via Lauren Kyle, Connor McDavid's wife, who shared a photo originally posted by Celeste Desjardins, Leon Draisaitl's wife. The image captured the entire group lined up on the ice, bundled in cozy winter gear against the cold night.
Style and Smiles on Ice: The Unfiltered Glimpse
The photo revealed the stars in their casual winter best, far removed from their team jerseys. Mattias Ekholm sported his signature style with a dark coat over a white beanie, standing next to his wife who wore a striking white puffer jacket. Connor McDavid kept it simple in a navy jacket and beanie, while his wife Lauren Kyle opted for a warm white jacket.
Leon Draisaitl coordinated in a navy hoodie that complemented his partner Celeste Desjardins's tan puffer vest. Later, Ida Ekholm, Mattias's wife, shared her own snowy selfie, wishing her followers peaceful and happy holidays from Edmonton. The Edmonton Oilers' official Instagram account quickly reposted the moment, captioning it "a bit of ODR fun," which amplified the feel-good vibe for their massive fanbase.
The Human Side of Hockey Superstars
This simple Christmas Eve ODR skate served as a poignant reminder of the human side of these athletes. After a rollercoaster season filled with immense pressure and high expectations, the outing was a return to the fundamental joy of the sport—the simple act of skating on a frozen rink with loved ones. It highlighted how the most memorable moments often happen far from the limelight, in genuine, shared experiences.
The event resonated deeply with fans, who appreciated seeing their idols in a relaxed, personal context. It underscored the strong bond within the Oilers' core group, not just as teammates but as friends and families embracing the local community and the quintessential Canadian winter tradition of outdoor hockey.
