BLOG: Draisaitl deserving of All-Star nod says Hitchcock

Oilers head coach Ken Hitchcock was asked about Leon Draisaitl having to go through a fan vote to get into the 2019 NHL All-Star Game in San Jose.
"I know every team complains about their guys but he's having a career year. You want to see guys -- especially for younger players to go for the first, second or third time it's a really important function because you get a really good sense of the history f the game. I've never seen it hurt a young player. They get to be around and see how veteran players carry themselves. Any time you can hang around with guys like Crosby you benefit big time."
Hitchcock added that seeing those types of players up close and personal can be huge for one's development.
"In professional preparation, there's a reason they're elite players. Not just because they have skill but the way they prepare themselves and carry themselves. I think it's a good lesson for anybody."
Fans can vote for Draisiatl up to 10 times in any given 24-hour period by going to NHL.com/vote.