In a game where the Edmonton Oilers faced an early setback with Leon Draisaitl's departure just five minutes in, the team needed someone to step up. Enter 22-year-old rookie Matt Savoie, who delivered a standout performance that secured a crucial two points for Edmonton on Sunday night.
Savoie, showcasing his skill and poise, scored the decisive goal in a two-on-one with Connor McDavid-a play that would have made Draisaitl proud. His impact was felt across the ice, as he logged significant time on the penalty kill, helping the unit go a perfect four-for-four. Not only did he look comfortable on the first line, but he also excelled defensively and even went 2-0 in the face-off circle.
Being a reliable two-way player and penalty killer is impressive on its own, but Savoie’s ability to complement McDavid on the top line is a rare talent. Head coach Kris Knoblauch noted, “I don’t see any reason to move Savvy off the top line right now; he’s playing really well.
They’re creating a lot of offense. That line will stay intact for a while.”
Savoie’s rise isn’t just about filling a gap. The Oilers strategically moved long-time first-liner Ryan Nugent-Hopkins to the third line to make room for him, highlighting the team's belief in Savoie's abilities.
For an organization focused on winning now, having a young player like Savoie, who is both skilled and well-rounded, is invaluable for both the present and the future. “People forget how young he is,” said winger Zach Hyman.
“He’s got an unbelievable motor. He just goes and goes, and he skates as good as anyone in the league and can make plays.
He’s a guy who’s going to play in the top six for a long, long time. Just a phenomenal player who is only going to get better.”
The Oilers’ patient approach to Savoie’s development-sending him to the minors last season and easing him into the lineup this year-is clearly paying off. As his responsibilities grow, so does his confidence and performance.
Savoie, currently 12th in rookie scoring with 27 points, including nine in the last 10 games, reflected on his progress: “I’m a player who likes playing with the puck, having it in my hands and being able to make plays with it. Having it as much as possible is obviously a big thing with me.”
Since October, Savoie’s growth has been evident. While not all rookies develop in a straight line, his trajectory is clearly upward, and it couldn’t come at a better time for the team.
“I think just the consistency of it,” said Savoie, the ninth overall pick in the 2022 draft. “I think in the first half of the year there were stretches where there’s a couple good games, a couple bad games.
I think since the Christmas break I’ve been more consistent game by game. Just getting looks and playing a better all-around game.”
For a local kid who grew up watching the Oilers, being a difference maker during their Stanley Cup window is a dream come true. Savoie’s journey is a testament to young forwards everywhere: earning a coach’s trust through a complete 200-foot game can unlock opportunities beyond just scoring goals.
Even the best players generate offense only a few shifts per game, so Savoie’s understanding that the other shifts matter too is paying dividends. “I think he’s been great,” said goaltender Connor Ingram.
“That’s not really what you expect out of young guys. But obviously he’s learned and he’s a smart kid who knows how to get it done.”