Edmonton may be having some problems with Ryan Nugent-Hopkins' productivity, leading to some wondering about a call up for Savoie to slide into the top six.
In a recent piece for the Edmonton Journal, Oilers insider Kurt Leavins suggested that Savoie won't be able to knock a veteran out of the lineup for the playoffs, but he's penciled in for next season.
The recent developments in Savoie's game should excite Oilers fans, even if he won't be making the NHL squad this year.
After a slow start to the season, Savoie's offence has picked up - now with 9 goals and 26 points in 31 games. His offensive talent has earned him a nomination for the AHL all star game.
However, Oilers analyst Bruce Curlock believes that the most important change in Savoie's game is his defensive play. Not only has he become the team's best offensive player, he's now showing consistency on both sides of the puck.
The Oilers bought low on Savoie by trading Ryan McLeod for the former top 10 draft pick in the offseason. Savoie's prospect stock had fallen, but he played with 4 different teams in 3 different leagues last year - he just needs time to develop.
According to an earlier piece from Daniel-Nugent Bowman in the Athletic, the Oilers want Savoie to get the full experience of playing in the AHL this year before a call up. He needs the development after a lost season last year.
These should be great signs for Oilers fans that another high-end prospect is in the pipeline. Let Savoie develop this year, and he'll be itching for a chance in the Oilers top six next year.
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