The Deutscher Eishockey-Bund (DEB) provides the ARD documentary “Powerplay – The best ice hockey team for the Olympics” is presented, starting from Saturday, January 24, 2026, in ARD media library is available. The documentary, produced by MDR and realized by beetz brothers film production, follows the men's national team over twelve months during their preparation for the 2026 Winter Olympics.
The film offers exclusive insights into the association's work and follows the squad selection process for the 2026 Winter OlympicsThe focus is on National coach Harold Kreis and the German NHL professionals and national team players from the PENNY DEL, who are competing for a place on the Olympic team. For the first time since 2014, NHL superstars are participating in the ice hockey tournament in Milan, meaning the world's best players will be competing against each other.
In connection with the publication of the documentation, the DEB for the excellent and productive collaboration with the production team. Furthermore, we would like to thank MagentaSport, the PENNY DEL, the participants Clubs and national team players as well as all other participants who supported the documentation and actively contributed.
Official press release from ARD
POWERPLAY – THE BEST ICE HOCKEY TEAM FOR THE OLYMPICS
If a team wants to make history
Seven years after winning the historic silver medal in Pyeongchang, the German national ice hockey team is once again facing a moment that could change everything. The Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics promise a tournament of unprecedented brilliance: For the first time since 2014, the North American NHL will be taking a break – and the best players in the world will once again compete at the Olympics. Among them: Leon Draisaitl, global superstar, leader, and, since 2024, the highest-paid ice hockey player in the world.
POWERPLAY tells this story with unprecedented intimacy and emotional power. The 60-minute documentary, a production of MDR for ARD and produced by beetz brothers film production, follows the national team over twelve intense months on their journey to the Games. Directed by Jens Pfeifer and Mario Kottkamp, it offers exclusive insights into a pivotal chapter in German ice hockey history.
The film is far more than just a behind-the-scenes look at tournament preparations. It's a grand declaration of love for the captivating world's fastest team sport – told for a broad audience that is enthralled every four years. The film paints a unique picture of the journey there: intense, emotional, and intimate.
POWERPLAY describes the hopes and dreams the players carry within them, the expectations placed on a team led by Leon Draisaitl, one of the world's best players. At its heart is national coach Harold "Harry" Kreis – a legendary player, playmaker, and team builder. He is forging a squad that aspires to be more than just a team. A squad that embodies the ambition: We are among the world's best. Kreis knows the times when Germany was underestimated internationally – and is now leading a golden generation to Italy. "Can the player help the team – and that's not just evident on the ice," he says. This very idea shapes the film.
Alongside Harold Kreis, seven selected players give POWERPLAY a face: Leon Draisaitl, who speaks openly about his passion and the roots of his career; NHL stars like Moritz Seider and JJ Peterka; ice hockey legend Moritz Müller; goaltender Mathias Niederberger; and other key players from the national team. They talk about pressure, responsibility, dreams – and the unique opportunity of the Olympics.
A production of beetz brothers film production in cooperation with MDR for ARD.