Carter Savoie leaves Oilers, signs with Finnish Elite League's TPS
In a significant move that marks a new chapter in his hockey career, Carter Savoie, the young talent from Edmonton, has signed a contract with TPS of the Finnish Elite League.
This development comes after Savoie's journey with the Edmonton Oilers ended somewhat unexpectedly.
At 22, Savoie, originally selected by the Oilers in the fourth round of the 2020 NHL Draft, has transitioned from hopeful prospect to seeking new horizons overseas. His tenure with the Oilers' AHL affiliate, the Bakersfield Condors, saw him tally 10 goals and total 22 points across 63 games in the previous season. Despite these efforts, the Oilers chose not to extend a qualifying offer to Savoie as he entered restricted free agency, leaving him to explore opportunities beyond the NHL.
Bob Stauffer provided insights that the Oilers did reconsider their stance, offering Savoie a deal to continue playing in the AHL, particularly intriguing given the recent acquisition of his brother, Matthew Savoie, who is expected to play in the AHL this season.
Despite the familial ties and the potential of playing alongside his brother, Carter Savoie opted to decline the AHL offer. His decision to play in Finland could be a strategic move to gain more significant ice time and showcase his abilities in a leading role, potentially opening doors for a return to the NHL under more favorable circumstances.
This transition is not just a change of leagues but also a poignant moment for Savoie and the Oilers. While the Oilers' focus may now shift more towards Matthew, who is pegged as the more promising of the Savoie siblings, Carter's departure is not without a note of disappointment. There was a unique narrative in play with his local roots and the prospect of the Savoie brothers contributing together to their hometown team.
In moving to the Finnish Elite League, Carter Savoie is not just seeking more playtime; he is aiming to redefine his path to the NHL, betting on himself in a market that often rewards such boldness with ample opportunities. His journey will be one to watch as he embarks on this exciting new phase of his career in professional hockey.
Source: NHLRosters on X
| POLL | ||
Do you believe Carter Savoie's career will lead him back to the NHL? | ||
| Yes | 51 | 59.3 % |
| No | 35 | 40.7 % |
| List of polls | ||
