In a significant update for Edmonton Oilers fans, team insider Bob Stauffer has provided strong assurance that the organization will secure rookie forward Matt Savoie with a new contract, deliberately avoiding the scenario that saw young talents Philip Broberg and Dylan Holloway depart.
Insider Confidence on a New Deal
Stauffer made the declaration during the Oilers' broadcast against the Seattle Kraken on December 4, 2025. He directly addressed concerns about the potential for Savoie to receive an offer sheet from another team, a mechanism that previously impacted the roster. "Here’s the reality with Matt Savoie," Stauffer stated. "The Oilers will not make the same mistakes with Matt Savoie that they made with Philip Broberg and Dylan Holloway."
He emphasized that Savoie will be signed to a "bridge" contract, a shorter-term deal common for developing players. The insider noted that Savoie's representation by Edmonton-based agent Gerry Johansson and the proactive approach of Oilers' General Manager Stan Bowman are key factors. "Stan Bowman will get ahead of this. Mark my words," Stauffer said, predicting a deal will be completed.
Savoie's Development and Versatility
Stauffer highlighted the Oilers' deliberate development path for the young forward, which included a full season in the American Hockey League (AHL) with the Bakersfield Condors. There, Savoie was trusted in defensive situations, including penalty-killing duties under coaches Keith Gretzky and Colin Chaulk.
This well-rounded development, Stauffer argued, has created a more versatile player. "He can do more things than just play in a top six and score. If worst comes to worst, he can play as a third line winger," the insider explained, labeling Savoie a "very useful player with a high upside."
Timely Performance Boost
The comments coincided with one of Savoie's strongest performances of the 2025-26 NHL season. During the game, he generated more high-danger scoring chances and scored his fourth goal of the year, a short-handed marker that showcased his two-way growth.
Former Oilers executive Craig MacTavish underscored the importance of that production for a player aiming for a top-six role. "You got to score if you’re going to play in a Top 6 role and that’s a huge goal for him," MacTavish said. Broadcast host Gene Principe also quipped, "Yeah, savvy move to get that goal."
The organization's stated commitment to securing Savoie's future signals a strategic shift, aiming to retain its drafted talent and build a sustainable contender around its core stars.