In a remarkable start to his full NHL campaign, 22-year-old Matt Savoie has quickly established himself as an integral part of the Edmonton Oilers’ roster. The talented forward, who began his journey in St. Albert, Alberta, is making waves not only for his impressive scoring but also for his versatility on the ice. As the Oilers aim for a strong playoff push, Savoie’s contributions could prove vital.
A Dream Realised
Savoie’s rise to the NHL has been nothing short of a dream come true. Having idolised Connor McDavid while growing up, the prospect of sharing a locker room with the superstar seemed unimaginable to him as a child. Reflecting on his journey, Savoie remarked, “If you told my 10-year-old self, he probably wouldn’t even believe you. But now, I just take it day by day and make the most out of the opportunity.”
This season, Savoie has made an impressive impact, sitting tied for the tenth-most goals among rookies with nine. With a total of 18 points, he ranks within the top 15 first-year forwards in the league, showcasing his ability to perform in high-pressure situations.
Coach’s Confidence
Head coach Kris Knoblauch was initially uncertain about what to expect from Savoie as the 2025-26 season unfolded. While he demonstrated considerable skill with the AHL’s Bakersfield Condors last year—finishing with 19 goals and 54 points in 66 games and earning an All-Star selection—the transition to the NHL is notoriously challenging.
“We thought there’d be nights where we should probably give him a night off, let him reset, come back,” Knoblauch explained. “But he hasn’t needed that. His game has been at a pretty high level.” Savoie’s consistency has surprised many, as he has played all 54 games this season, averaging nearly 14 minutes of ice time. His flexibility has proven beneficial, as he has been deployed across various positions, including left wing, right wing, and on special teams.
Making an Impact
Savoie’s contributions extend beyond just scoring; he has also become a crucial part of the Oilers’ penalty kill unit, which currently ranks 16th in the league with a success rate of 79.3 per cent. “Being part of the penalty kill helps me find rhythm within a game,” Savoie noted. “When there are games where we’re on the kill multiple times, it’s nice to get into the game and contribute there.”
His recent performance includes a standout moment during Edmonton’s 7-4 victory over the Anaheim Ducks, where he assisted on a spectacular goal that showcased his playmaking ability. He collected a loose puck at centre ice and teamed up with defenceman Mattias Ekholm, ultimately leading to Ekholm’s second goal of the night.
A Bright Future Ahead
Savoie’s ability to maintain a high level of play, even during challenging stretches, has impressed both his teammates and coaching staff. Knoblauch stated, “He’s still a young player, and he’s still going to continue to get better. But right now, we’re very happy with where his game’s at.”
With three points in his last four games, Savoie continues to demonstrate his potential as a cornerstone for the Oilers moving forward.
Why it Matters
Matt Savoie’s emergence as a promising talent not only bolsters the Edmonton Oilers’ chances in the current season but also signifies a bright future for the franchise. As he navigates the demands of the NHL, his ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game could be pivotal as the Oilers strive for playoff success. For fans in Edmonton and across Canada, Savoie’s journey serves as a testament to the impact of homegrown talent and the importance of nurturing young players in the competitive world of professional hockey.
