Edmonton Oilers Strengthen Roster with Return of Penalty Kill Ace Matt Savoie
The Edmonton Oilers have made a strategic move to reinforce their lineup by recalling winger Matt Savoie from the Bakersfield Condors of the American Hockey League. This decision comes as the team seeks to address recent struggles on the penalty kill, particularly in the early months of 2026.
Savoie's Impressive Penalty Kill Performance
Matt Savoie has demonstrated remarkable proficiency in penalty kill situations this season. Despite being only adequate at even strength, his defensive contributions on the PK have been outstanding. In 90 minutes of penalty kill ice time, Savoie has committed just 12 mistakes that led to Grade A shots against the Oilers. This translates to a rate of 0.27 errors per two minutes of PK time, the lowest among all Oilers forwards.
For comparison, veteran forward Mattias Janmark has made 25 such mistakes in 64 PK minutes, resulting in a significantly higher rate of 0.78 per two minutes. Savoie's ability to minimize defensive lapses under pressure makes him a valuable asset for the team's special teams unit.
Impact on Oilers' Penalty Kill Unit
The Oilers' penalty kill has faced challenges in 2026, partly due to the absence of key player Adam Henrique, who is currently injured. With Savoie's recall, the team now has the potential to form a more effective PK lineup. Alongside Henrique and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, Savoie could help stabilize the unit and improve its overall performance.
Additionally, it is noteworthy that Connor McDavid has generated 13 short-handed Grade A shots for the Oilers, matching the number of mistakes he has made on the PK. This balance likely explains why coach Kris Knoblauch frequently deploys McDavid in penalty kill situations, leveraging his offensive threat even while shorthanded.
Broader Context and Team Strategy
The recall of Matt Savoie underscores the Oilers' focus on enhancing their defensive capabilities as they navigate the NHL season. His specialized skills in penalty killing could prove crucial in tight games, where special teams often determine outcomes. As the team integrates Savoie back into the lineup, fans and analysts will be watching to see if his presence translates into improved results on the ice.
This move also highlights the importance of depth in professional hockey, with the AHL serving as a vital resource for developing talent that can step up when needed. Savoie's journey from the minors to the NHL spotlight exemplifies the ongoing roster adjustments teams make to stay competitive.
