Edmonton Oilers Rookie Matt Savoie’s Offensive Struggles Pose No Major Concern
The Edmonton Oilers are currently evaluating Matt Savoie’s early NHL performance amid concerns about his offensive output. Acquired from the Buffalo Sabres in July 2024, Savoie has experienced a challenging start with the team, but not much apprehension surrounds his abilities.
Analysis of Savoie’s Performance
Last season, Matt Savoie predominantly played in the AHL with the Bakersfield Condors. In the 2024-25 season, he posted an impressive points-per-game average of 0.82. This statistic aligns well with historical performances of young players within the organization.
Comparison With AHL Players
- 2018-19: 0.97
- 2021-22: 0.67
- 2020-21: 0.53
- 2019-20: 0.41
His performance has been noteworthy, particularly regarding even-strength scoring. Savoie outscored his peers 55 to 30, achieving a 65% goals share when on the ice. This places him among the top-tier AHL rookies for the last decade.
Transitioning to the NHL
Savoie’s transition to the NHL has faced hurdles, mostly due to limited opportunities and the presence of established veterans. He has played just 17 minutes alongside Oilers stars Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl in five-on-five situations. Yet, he managed to contribute significantly in recent games, registering assists in a key overtime win against the Philadelphia Flyers.
Recent Game Highlights
His performance against the Flyers showcased his potential. He demonstrated strong playmaking skills and intelligent decision-making, allowing him to earn the coach’s trust. Similar to Kailer Yamamoto’s rookie season, Savoie exhibits a high level of skill but faces the challenge of competing for ice time against other talented players.
Future Expectations for Savoie
Expectations for Savoie remain reasonable despite his slow start. Originally projected to accumulate 37 points in 76 games, he is presently off that pace. However, he is proving himself worthy of continued playtime, demonstrating savvy hockey instincts and effective backchecking.
While Savoie may experience some defensive lapses, the Oilers believe in his potential. His lack of skating issues, unlike some of his predecessors, bodes well for his future contributions on the team.
Conclusion
Matt Savoie’s offensive struggles should not raise major concerns for the Edmonton Oilers. As he continues to integrate into the NHL and gain valuable experience, the organization remains optimistic about his capabilities on the ice. The upcoming season will be crucial for his development as he finds his rhythm and contributes to the Oilers’ success.
