Edmonton Oilers forward Matt Savoie is demonstrating that he is far from a typical rookie as he navigates his first full NHL season with growing confidence and production. The 22-year-old recently reflected on his journey, emphasizing the learning curve required to master professional hockey.
From Bakersfield to Breakthrough
Savoie's brief return to the Bakersfield Condors in the American Hockey League provided a valuable perspective on his development path. Sent down for roster management ahead of the NHL trade deadline, the trip reconnected him with familiar surroundings and coaching staff, including head coach Colin Chaulk.
"Honestly, it kind of flashed me back to where I was last year because it was so recent," Savoie explained. "Just the day-to-day grind that you go through down there trying to get called up, and wanting to get called up. It's a tough mindset you have to have feeling comfortable down there knowing that you're eventually going to get an opportunity."
Building Consistency in the Pro Game
Now having surpassed the 60-game mark in his NHL season, Savoie has accumulated 24 points (10 goals, 14 assists), with a quarter of that production coming in just three games following his return from Bakersfield. His approach to understanding professional hockey has been methodical and patient.
"I feel like it takes a while to figure out the pro game; when you can take chances, when you have to get it in, and doing it on a consistent basis," Savoie noted. "So, I think last year, that's just what I kind of did the whole season, was just try to figure out the pro game. It slowly built over the whole season and at the end of the year I felt really good, and I felt like I had a good summer coming into camp this year."
Earning Increased Responsibility
Savoie's development has translated into significant ice time and responsibility with the Oilers. He currently ranks among the top five Edmonton forwards in playing time, trailing only established stars like Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, and Vasily Podkolzin.
Notably, Savoie has logged the most shorthanded minutes of any Oilers forward this season, demonstrating the coaching staff's trust in his defensive capabilities alongside his offensive contributions.
A Patient Development Approach
The Oilers' handling of Savoie represents a more measured development strategy compared to how some first-round prospects have been rushed to the NHL only to struggle with consistency. Savoie's gradual progression through the AHL before establishing himself in Edmonton appears to be paying dividends.
With 21 games remaining in the regular season, Savoie has his sights set on reaching 30 points—a realistic goal given his recent production of 11 points in his last 20 games since the new year began. His performance suggests the rookie label no longer applies as he continues to establish himself as a reliable contributor for the Oilers.
