Oilers Rookie Savoie Shines on Top Line Without Draisaitl

Edmonton Oilers rookie forward Matt Savoie has emerged as a key contributor on the team's top line, providing steady energy and production during a challenging stretch without star center Leon Draisaitl. The 22-year-old from nearby St. Albert has tallied nine points in his last 11 games, including the game-winning goal in a 3-1 victory over the Nashville Predators on Sunday and an assist on Zach Hyman's insurance goal in Tuesday's 5-3 win against the San Jose Sharks.

Savoie, selected ninth overall by the Buffalo Sabres in the 2022 NHL Draft and acquired by the Oilers in a trade for Ryan McLeod, has recorded 11 goals and 28 points in 69 games this season. His recent form has come amid lineup adjustments by head coach Kris Knoblauch, who has shuffled forwards in search of chemistry during an inconsistent campaign. Savoie, a speedy 5-foot-10, 180-pound winger known for his tenacious style, was elevated to the first line with Connor McDavid and Hyman after veteran Ryan Nugent-Hopkins shifted lower in the lineup for personal reasons during a recent road trip.

Teammates have praised Savoie's ability to keep up with McDavid's blistering pace. "I just noticed the energy he's playing...