‘I think he’s earned it’: Edmonton Oilers giving prospect Matthew Savoie his shot

In a significant development for the Edmonton Oilers, the team has announced that prospect Matthew Savoie will be given his long-awaited shot at the NHL level. This news has generated considerable excitement both among Oilers fans and the hockey world at large. Known for his exceptional skill set and relentless work ethic, Savoie’s ascent to the NHL represents not just an important moment for his career, but also a promising future for the Oilers organization.

The Oilers have been lauded for their ability to develop young talent in recent years, with Savoie poised to join the ranks of emerging stars looking to make their mark in Edmonton. With Savoie’s remarkable performances in the American Hockey League (AHL), the Oilers coaching staff, led by head coach Kris Knoblauch, has voiced their confidence in the 19-year-old forward. As Knoblauch himself put it, “I think he’s earned it.” This endorsement is not just a reflection of Savoie’s development but also a testament to the work that the Oilers have put into building a pipeline of talent capable of supporting their current stars like Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl.

A Glimpse into Matthew Savoie’s Career

Matthew Savoie’s journey to the NHL has been one of consistent growth and improvement. A highly touted prospect, Savoie was selected by the Buffalo Sabres with the ninth overall pick in the 2022 NHL Draft. Known for his explosive skating, exceptional vision, and ability to make plays under pressure, Savoie was quickly recognized as one of the top prospects in his draft class. His combination of speed and hockey IQ allowed him to dominate the junior ranks, and he became a key figure in the Winnipeg Ice’s success in the Western Hockey League (WHL).

After his draft by the Sabres, Savoie signed a three-year entry-level contract and started his professional career with the Rochester Americans, Buffalo’s AHL affiliate. However, despite being part of the Sabres’ system, Savoie’s development in Rochester didn’t proceed as smoothly as many had hoped. Injuries and a lack of consistent ice time kept him from fully showcasing his talents, and he faced challenges adjusting to the professional game.

It wasn’t until the 2024-2025 season, when the young forward was traded to the Edmonton Oilers, that Savoie truly started to find his rhythm. In what can only be described as a fresh start, Savoie joined the Oilers’ AHL affiliate, the Bakersfield Condors. Playing under the Oilers’ development system, he was able to benefit from better resources, an improved support staff, and a more suitable environment for his growth. This shift proved to be exactly what Savoie needed, as he quickly turned in impressive performances on the ice.

In 45 games with the Condors, Savoie amassed 37 points, including 13 goals and 24 assists. His on-ice vision and playmaking ability flourished as he learned to adjust his game to the professional level. In a league known for its speed and physicality, Savoie’s adaptability and sharp hockey sense made him stand out, and it became increasingly clear that he was ready for the next step. His remarkable performance in the AHL this season is a testament to his work ethic, resilience, and commitment to honing his skills.

Kris Knoblauch’s Confidence in Savoie

When asked about Matthew Savoie’s readiness for the NHL, head coach Kris Knoblauch did not hesitate to express his belief in the young forward’s potential. “I think he’s earned it,” Knoblauch said, underscoring the fact that Savoie’s progression has been no accident. The confidence shown by the Oilers’ coaching staff is a significant moment in the young player’s career. It suggests that Savoie has not only developed his skillset but has also matured into a player capable of competing at the highest level.

The development of prospects in the AHL is often an arduous journey, but Savoie’s performance indicates that he has done everything necessary to earn a spot with the Oilers. For Knoblauch and the Oilers’ front office, promoting Savoie is a clear acknowledgment that his development has reached a point where he can be trusted to contribute to the team’s success.

Knoblauch’s faith in Savoie also speaks to the depth of talent that the Oilers have been cultivating in recent years. With a wealth of promising young players in their system, the Oilers are beginning to transition from a team primarily built around their superstar players to one that features young talent as well. Players like Savoie, who have the ability to contribute right away, give the Oilers the potential to build for the long term while remaining competitive in the present.

The Oilers’ Long-Term Vision

The Edmonton Oilers have been in a state of flux over the last decade, constantly striving for success while struggling to develop young players around McDavid and Draisaitl. For years, the team relied heavily on its superstar talent to carry the load, but the organization’s fortunes began to change as they invested more in their scouting and player development systems. The acquisition of young talent such as Savoie is a direct result of the Oilers’ commitment to building a balanced roster that can compete on a sustained basis.

In recent years, the Oilers have seen strong contributions from younger players like Evan Bouchard, Dylan Holloway, and Ryan McLeod. These players have helped solidify the team’s depth and contributed to their overall success. The addition of Savoie only further strengthens the idea that the Oilers are no longer a one-dimensional team, but one that can rely on a mix of veterans and emerging stars to achieve their goals.

Savoie’s development will also be crucial to the team’s ability to withstand the pressures of the salary cap and maintain long-term competitiveness. As McDavid and Draisaitl continue to lead the team, having capable young players in key roles will be essential to ensuring that the Oilers can continue to contend for championships without being weighed down by a lack of depth. By integrating young players into the lineup and giving them the opportunity to succeed, the Oilers are setting themselves up for sustained success.

Savoie’s Playing Style and Potential Impact

Matthew Savoie’s playing style is one that has caught the attention of scouts and analysts alike. Known for his blazing speed and exceptional puck-handling ability, Savoie is a player who can create scoring chances in the blink of an eye. His skating is among the best in the prospect pool, and he has the agility to break through defenders and get into high-danger areas with ease. Furthermore, his vision and hockey IQ make him a dynamic playmaker who is capable of setting up teammates with precision.

Savoie’s ability to create offense is complemented by his solid two-way game. While he has room to grow defensively, he has shown a willingness to work on his game away from the puck. His commitment to rounding out his overall skill set is something that will serve him well at the NHL level, where every player must contribute in all three zones.

For the Oilers, Savoie’s versatility and offensive skill set could provide an immediate impact on their forward group. His speed and playmaking ability could allow him to fit well alongside established stars such as McDavid and Draisaitl. If he can find chemistry with these players, he has the potential to be a dynamic offensive threat who can complement their skill sets and create even more scoring opportunities.

Additionally, Savoie’s ability to play on the power play could prove invaluable for the Oilers, as the team has long been one of the most dangerous units in the NHL when they are clicking. His quick release and vision make him a strong candidate to contribute on special teams, potentially adding another layer to the Oilers’ already potent offensive attack.

The Road Ahead for Savoie

Matthew Savoie’s NHL debut is just the beginning of what promises to be an exciting career. As he steps onto the ice for the Oilers, he will be joining a team that is built for success, with a mix of veteran leadership and young talent. The pressure to perform will be significant, but Savoie has already shown that he is capable of rising to the occasion.

The coming weeks and months will be crucial for Savoie as he adjusts to the pace and intensity of the NHL. However, with the trust of his coaches and the support of his teammates, he will have every opportunity to prove himself and earn a permanent spot on the Oilers’ roster. The next chapter of his career is filled with possibilities, and the Oilers are excited to see what he can bring to the table.

In the end, Matthew Savoie’s promotion to the NHL is not just a personal achievement—it’s a statement of intent from the Edmonton Oilers. The organization is committed to building a competitive team, and they are giving their young prospects, like Savoie, the opportunity to contribute at the highest level. As the Oilers continue their quest for a Stanley Cup, having players like Savoie in the lineup will only strengthen their chances of success.