NHL Score: Savoie Shines Alongside McDavid
The Edmonton Oilers are seeing a significant boost from rookie forward Matt Savoie, who’s quickly making an impact playing alongside one of the NHL’s top offensive players, Connor McDavid. Savoie is embracing the opportunity, stating, “It’s just a lot of excitement from my side, obviously. A chance to play with the best player in the world and contribute at that level every night.”
McDavid currently sits second in the NHL with an impressive 118 points (40 goals, 78 assists), just two points behind Tampa Bay Lightning’s Nikita Kucherov (120 points; 40 goals, 80 assists). Savoie, in his first season, has already tallied three points (two goals, one assist) in five games on the Oilers’ top line with McDavid and Zach Hyman.
Filling a Crucial Role
Savoie stepped into this role following a lower-body injury to Leon Draisaitl, which will keep him sidelined for the remainder of the regular season. The Oilers (35-28-9) currently hold a one-point lead over the Vegas Golden Knights (32-16-14) for second place in the Pacific Division, making every game crucial.
“When you’re playing with Connor, I think you just have to be aware of where he is on the ice and not force pucks to him, but try to get the pucks to him in good spots and be available for him,” Savoie explained. “He’s a player that’s able to make good plays and little passes that very few in the League can do, so you have to be ready.”
Chemistry and Confidence
The chemistry between Savoie and McDavid developed quickly after coach Kris Knoblauch adjusted the lines. Savoie scored just over two minutes into the game against the Nashville Predators, finishing a pass from McDavid. He’s since become a regular linemate and is also seeing time on the first power-play unit.
McDavid praised Savoie’s performance, saying, “He’s playing well. He’s doing a lot of really good things. That was a huge goal on the kill there. He plays with a lot of energy, he’s got a great motor on him, he keeps pucks alive, and that’s all you can ask for.”
Trade and Development
Savoie was acquired by the Oilers in a trade with the Buffalo Sabres on July 5, 2024. Drafted 9th overall by Buffalo in 2022, he spent last season primarily with Bakersfield of the American Hockey League, with brief stints with Edmonton. This season, he’s become a consistent NHL player, with 29 points (12 goals, 17 assists) in 72 games.
The Olympic break provided a valuable reset for Savoie. “I feel like the reset was huge, just to get some time away from the rink and time off the ice, and just kind of reset my body and kind of get back to 100 percent,” he said.
Looking Ahead
Coach Knoblauch has been impressed with Savoie’s growth, noting, “I think it’s always been in him, but just the confidence of having the puck and making those plays has been the biggest area where he’s grown this year.”
With Draisaitl sidelined, Savoie has also been given an opportunity on the power play, contributing to the Oilers’ league-leading 31.0% conversion rate. While the Oilers hope for Draisaitl’s return for the Stanley Cup Playoffs, the experience Savoie and others are gaining is invaluable.
“For sure, it’s a great opportunity for our group,” Savoie concluded. “Obviously you never want to play without a guy like that, that brings so much to your lineup on and off the ice. But I think every guy in here is ready to step up and give a little bit more.”
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