Leon Muggli, a second-round pick by the Capitals in the 2024 NHL Entry Draft, is an exciting addition to Washington’s talent pool and has started the season well with his hometown team, EV Zug – the same organization that produced former NHL defenseman Raphael Diaz. In a translated interview, Muggli shared his feelings about being drafted, reflections on his current season, and how his brother recently served as a linesman in a game.
In a match where EV Zug triumphed 5-2 over SC Rapperswil-Jona, Muggli experienced a unique moment. One of the linesmen was delayed due to snow and joined the game in the second period. During the first period, Muggli’s older brother Gian, usually officiating in lower leagues, stepped in as a substitute linesman.
“I didn’t realize it was him until about 10 minutes into the game,” Leon chuckled. “When he skated by, I was surprised and wondered what he was doing there. It was a really special moment that caught me off guard.”
Having turned 18 in July, Muggli can now play without a cage for his face. “It certainly feels more mature,” he said with a laugh. “It’s enjoyable and I had to adjust at first, but I’m comfortable without it now.”
Muggli had an impressive rookie season with EV Zug in 2023-24, but he started largely under the radar. This season, however, teams are aware of him as an NHL prospect. “I always put pressure on myself. The game hasn’t changed; the main difference is that I have a bit more experience now,” he explained.
This past summer was particularly memorable for Muggli when the Capitals drafted him in the second round. Although he acknowledges there’s a long path ahead to the NHL, he values this milestone. “It was an incredible moment, a dream from childhood coming to life. Sharing it with my parents in Las Vegas made it even more special, considering their sacrifices for me. But this is just the beginning, and I know the real work lies ahead.” After being drafted, he signed a three-year entry-level contract with the Capitals and returned to play for Zug for the 2024-25 season.
A personal highlight for Muggli was facing his brother Tim for the first time during a friendly match when Tim was still with HC Ambrì-Piotta before moving to EHC Chur. “It was a lot of fun to compete at this level. Our family cherished that moment,” he said, recalling their childhood games where they played without specific positions. “When we were young, it was all about having fun, regardless of roles, but I genuinely enjoy playing defense now.”
As the youngest of three brothers, Leon looked up to Gian and Tim, who also played hockey. “I always admired them,” he said. “While I don’t remember the first time I stepped on the ice, I distinctly recall watching their practices, which inspired me to take up the sport.”
Muggli is aware that there’s still much room for growth in his game. “I need to improve in every area, but if I had to choose one, it would be enhancing my offensive instincts. I focus on that every day to get better.” So far, he has accumulated four assists in seventeen regular-season games.
At Zug, Muggli benefits from playing alongside experienced teammates like Lukas Bengtsson, who has previously competed in the AHL and KHL. “My fellow defensemen are crucial to my development. Their extensive experience at this level provides valuable lessons during practices.” He also finds inspiration in Raphael Diaz, a former NHL defenseman who spent 15 seasons with Zug and currently plays for HC Fribourg-Gotteron. “I’ve always admired his slapshots and studied his gameplay. Facing him and other players I once watched on TV is a surreal experience. It’s incredible to have such accomplished teammates.”
With his ongoing development, Leon Muggli appears to have a promising future ahead, potentially following in the footsteps of Raphael Diaz towards a successful NHL career.
