Matthew Savoie Speaks Up About Oilers: “I’ve Had Enough of Feeling Like a Project—Maybe I Should Prove Myself Somewhere Else” 

Matthew Savoie Speaks Up About Oilers: “I’ve Had Enough of Feeling Like a Project—Maybe I Should Prove Myself Somewhere Else”

Matthew Savoie hasn’t officially asked for a trade, but what he recently said has stirred up a lot of talk around the Edmonton Oilers, and fans seem divided on this issue.

Savoie was once seen as a major part of the Oilers’ future, but his growth hasn’t been easy. He was drafted with high hopes and praised for his amazing understanding of hockey, but now he seems really frustrated with how his career is being managed. When he says he’s “done feeling like a project,” it’s not just a casual comment—it’s a serious message.

That statement is significant across the league. Young players don’t make those kinds of remarks unless there are serious problems happening out of view.

Some Oilers fans might find this feeling unsettlingly familiar. Edmonton has a long history of struggling to help young players step into important roles in the NHL. Instead of getting chances, players often hear talks about being patient. Instead of playing time, they are shown plans for development. Sometimes, those plans just leave players stuck.

When Savoie suggests he might “prove himself elsewhere,” it brings up a really important question: are the Oilers again at risk of losing a talented player before giving him a real opportunity? Critics believe that Edmonton’s focus on winning right now doesn’t allow prospects to naturally develop. If a player isn’t immediately helpful, they get pushed aside—mentally or physically.

Fans of the organization argue that Savoie still requires more time and experience. However, that argument is starting to fade. In the current NHL, young players from other teams are succeeding when given trust early on. Why can’t Savoie be one of them?

Whether this is just frustration spilling over or the start of a split, one thing is clear: Matthew Savoie’s words have brought attention to the Oilers’ approach to player development—and it doesn’t look good.

If Edmonton doesn’t act quickly, they might find themselves watching another gifted player thrive somewhere else, left wondering what went wrong—yet again.