Matt Savoie Thriving on McDavid’s Line for the Oilers | NHL News
EDMONTON – Rookie forward Matt Savoie is quickly making the most of an unexpected opportunity with the Edmonton Oilers, thriving alongside Connor McDavid as the team battles for playoff positioning. Thrust into a top-line role following a lower-body injury to Leon Draisaitl on , the 22-year-old Savoie has demonstrated a poise and effectiveness that has impressed both his captain and the coaching staff.
“It’s just a lot of excitement from my side, obviously,” Savoie said. “A chance to play with the best player in the world and contribute at that level every night.”
McDavid, currently second in the NHL with 118 points (40 goals, 78 assists) – trailing only Tampa Bay Lightning forward Nikita Kucherov’s 120 points – has clearly taken notice of Savoie’s contributions. The Oilers captain praised Savoie’s energy, motor, and ability to maintain possession, qualities that have seamlessly integrated into the team’s offensive flow.
“He’s playing well. He’s doing a lot of really good things,” McDavid said. “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.”
Savoie’s impact extends beyond even-strength play. He’s also found a place on the Oilers’ first power-play unit, adding another dimension to his game. A short-handed goal in a victory against the Utah Mammoth further highlighted his versatility and willingness to contribute in all facets of the game.
The Oilers, currently holding a one-point lead over the Vegas Golden Knights (32-16-14) for second place in the Pacific Division with a record of 35-28-9, are relying heavily on Savoie’s performance as they push for a strong finish to the regular season. The injury to Draisaitl presented a significant challenge, but Savoie’s emergence has provided a much-needed boost to the team’s offensive capabilities.
Savoie’s promotion to the top line came after he was elevated during the second period of the game against the Nashville Predators, where he quickly found chemistry with McDavid, scoring off a pass from the superstar on a 2-on-1. This initial success paved the way for a sustained partnership, and Savoie has responded with three points (two goals, one assist) in five games alongside McDavid and Zach Hyman.
The key to playing effectively with McDavid, according to Savoie, is awareness and a willingness to support his linemate. “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 endeavor to get the pucks to him in good spots and be available for him,” Savoie explained. “I think 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. You have to be on your toes and in scoring position at all times.”
The Oilers’ coaching staff, led by Kris Knoblauch, recognized Savoie’s potential and gradually integrated him into a bottom-six, penalty-killing role earlier in the season. However, his recent performance has clearly demonstrated his readiness for a more prominent role, and Knoblauch’s decision to place him alongside McDavid has proven to be a shrewd move.
While the eventual return of Zach Hyman to McDavid’s wing is anticipated – Hyman has been a consistent presence alongside the captain for several seasons – Savoie’s performance has undoubtedly place him in contention for a continued role in the Oilers’ top-six forward group. The question now becomes whether Savoie can maintain this level of play and solidify his position as a key contributor to the Oilers’ playoff push.
The Oilers face a crucial Pacific Division showdown against the Vegas Golden Knights on , a game that could have significant implications for the division standings. Savoie’s ability to continue generating offense and providing energy alongside McDavid will be critical as the Oilers look to secure their position in the Western Conference playoff picture.