Matt Savoie poised to take big step with Edmonton Oilers next season, says GM Stan Bowman
Matt Savoie may be on the verge of a breakout season. Edmonton Oilers general manager Stan Bowman recently expressed confidence in the 21-year-old forward, suggesting that Savoie could take a major step forward in the 2025–26 campaign.
With veteran departures creating lineup openings, and a need for penalty-killing depth, the spotlight is now firmly on the young forward to prove himself in training camp.
Edmonton Oilers GM backs Matt Savoie for expanded role next season
Stan Bowman didn't hold back when talking about Matt Savoie's future in Edmonton.
'There is some growth from within. I think Matt Savoie is probably poised to take a big step next year,'
the Oilers GM said during a recent interview. With the exits of Connor Brown and Corey Perry in free agency, the Oilers have key roster spots to fill, particularly on the penalty kill.
Savoie, acquired last summer in a trade that sent Ryan McLeod and Tyler Tullio to the Buffalo Sabres, impressed last season in the AHL with 54 points in 66 games for Bakersfield. But more importantly, his defensive responsibility and special teams play caught the attention of the Oilers' staff.
Penalty kill and even strength performance key to NHL shot
While Savoie played only four games with the Oilers last season, head coach Kris Knoblauch noted his reliability at even strength and his promise on the penalty kill.
'He didn't have any penalty-kill time when he was with us, but certainly, we saw him being a reliable two-way player at 5-on-5,'
Knoblauch said.
The Oilers believe Savoie's opportunity will lie primarily in shorthanded situations.
'The opportunity for Savoie is on the penalty kill, not that he can't be on the power play, but I definitely see him being a big part of our penalty kill,'
Bowman emphasized.
Youth movement could define Oilers' 2025–26 season
With a veteran core still intact but the team falling just short of a Stanley Cup in back-to-back seasons, Edmonton appears ready to inject youth into its lineup. Savoie stands out as one of the top candidates to step up and make an impact. Training camp will be his proving ground, and all signs point to a real chance at a full-time NHL role.
If he delivers, Savoie could be one of the surprise contributors in a pivotal Oilers season.
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Conor Timmins reunites with Maple Leafs' Bobby McMann and Joseph Woll at Coldplay concert in Toronto
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