Edmonton Oilers Counting on Matt Savoie to Spark Fresh Energy and Depth Scoring in Grueling 2025-26 Stanley Cup Campaign
The Edmonton Oilers are preparing to infuse youth into their veteran-heavy lineup for the 2025-26 NHL season, and one of the key names in that conversation is former top prospect Matt Savoie. With over 211 games played across the last two seasons, the Oilers’ core has gone through the physical and emotional toll of deep playoff runs. Now, as they look for that final push toward a Stanley Cup title, they’re turning to fresh legs and dynamic playmaking — and Savoie is expected to be at the center of that injection of energy.
Drafted ninth overall in the 2022 NHL Draft by the Buffalo Sabres, Savoie has long been viewed as one of the most talented forwards in his draft class. After a few years of development in the WHL, AHL, and limited NHL stints, he is now poised to get a legitimate opportunity to make an impact on one of the best teams in the league. Edmonton acquired him in a blockbuster trade last season, one that sent shockwaves across the NHL landscape and signaled the Oilers’ intent to build both for the present and the future.
Savoie brings a high-end offensive toolkit that could complement Edmonton’s elite playmakers like Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. He’s known for his explosive skating, quick hands, and a natural instinct for finding soft spots in defensive coverage. Those traits make him a strong candidate to either slot into a top-nine role or begin on the fourth line with the potential to climb quickly. In preseason and training camp, all eyes will be on Savoie to see whether he can carry his momentum from the AHL and junior levels into the NHL on a full-time basis.
The Oilers have no shortage of offensive firepower at the top of the lineup, but where they’ve occasionally faltered — especially in the playoffs — is in the depth scoring department. Too often, opposing teams have been able to key in on McDavid and Draisaitl, shutting them down or limiting their time and space, forcing the rest of the lineup to pick up the slack. Adding a young forward like Savoie who can create offense, push the pace, and force defenders to stay honest could open up new dimensions for Edmonton’s attack.
For Savoie, the 2025-26 season represents a golden opportunity. He’s no longer the wide-eyed prospect trying to get his first taste of NHL ice — he’s now expected to compete for a full-time role and make an impact. At just 21 years old, he still has plenty of growth ahead, but the Oilers believe the time is right to test his readiness. He’s coming off a strong AHL campaign with the Rochester Americans, where he demonstrated his ability to drive offense, adapt to the pro pace, and improve his two-way play — a crucial factor in earning trust from NHL coaches.
Head coach Kris Knoblauch will likely start Savoie in a sheltered role, perhaps on the third or fourth line, with opportunities on the second power-play unit. The Oilers are deep up front, but there’s enough fluidity in the middle-six forward group that Savoie could easily carve out a larger role if he starts the season strong. His ability to play center or wing also gives the coaching staff flexibility, particularly if injuries or slumps affect more established players.
But beyond just goals and assists, Savoie offers something the Oilers have lacked at times: youthful energy and fearlessness. He’s the kind of player who doesn’t shy away from big moments, and his quick decision-making could help Edmonton play with more tempo and urgency. Those traits are especially valuable during the long grind of an 82-game regular season and what the Oilers hope will be another long playoff run.
Another reason Savoie’s arrival is so important lies in the context of Edmonton’s long-term planning. With both McDavid and Draisaitl approaching the end of their current contracts, the front office is balancing short-term ambition with long-term sustainability. Developing players like Savoie internally and getting meaningful contributions from them allows the Oilers to maximize their salary cap flexibility. It’s much more efficient — and essential — to plug roster holes with young, cost-controlled talent rather than overpaying for veteran depth in free agency.
It’s also worth noting that Savoie’s path to the NHL hasn’t been entirely straightforward. Injuries and a crowded depth chart in Buffalo limited his opportunities early in his career. However, the change of scenery provided by his trade to Edmonton has clearly reinvigorated his development. Oilers management has taken a careful, deliberate approach with his progress, ensuring that when he finally steps into the NHL spotlight, he’s fully prepared for the challenge.
Veterans on the Oilers’ roster have already spoken positively about Savoie’s attitude and skillset. During development camp and informal summer skates, he’s impressed with his speed, agility, and ability to create space in tight areas. McDavid himself noted Savoie’s potential during post-practice media sessions, indicating that the young forward’s work ethic and hockey IQ have made him stand out early. Praise from the best player in the world is no small thing — and it’s a sign that Savoie could be more than just a bottom-six filler.
There will, of course, be growing pains. Every young player faces an adjustment period when transitioning to the speed, strength, and structure of the NHL. Mistakes will happen, and Savoie will need to earn his ice time every night. But Edmonton’s coaching staff is prepared to be patient, especially if he shows signs of adapting and contributing in areas beyond offense, like puck retrieval, backchecking, and smart positioning.
Fans should also temper expectations somewhat. It’s unlikely Savoie will come in and score 60 points in his rookie campaign, but if he can chip in 10 to 15 goals, provide reliable bottom-six minutes, and keep the energy level high throughout the season, the Oilers will consider that a massive win. The real upside is that as he gains experience and confidence, he could grow into a much larger role in future seasons — potentially even evolving into a top-six mainstay if everything goes right.
The addition of Savoie also injects excitement into the fan base. While established stars provide the foundation, fans always get energized by watching young players rise through the ranks and make their mark. If Savoie can string together a few highlight-reel plays, score some timely goals, or even show flashes of brilliance, he could quickly become a fan favorite in Edmonton — a city that’s always passionate about its hockey and hungry for its next homegrown star.
In many ways, the 2025-26 season could be a defining chapter in Savoie’s career. He has all the tools to succeed at the NHL level — now he just needs the opportunity and the support system to put it all together. And for the Oilers, the timing couldn’t be better. As they try to capitalize on their current championship window, adding a dynamic, young weapon like Savoie could help provide the edge they need in a league where speed, skill, and depth are more valuable than ever.
By bringing Savoie into the fold, the Oilers are making a clear statement: they believe their championship aspirations are best served by blending elite experience with emerging youth. That balance has fueled champions before — and Edmonton hopes it will do the same for them.
