The hockey world was stunned last summer when the Buffalo Sabres traded their top prospect, Matt Savoie, to the Edmonton Oilers in exchange for Ryan McLeod and Tyler Tullio. At the time, the move was met with mixed reactions, with many questioning whether the Sabres had given up too much potential for immediate help. Now, over a year later, it's becoming increasingly clear that the Oilers may have won this deal, as Savoie is beginning to find his stride while McLeod struggles to find consistency in Buffalo.
Savoie, drafted ninth overall by the Sabres in 2022, was known for his dynamic offensive skills and playmaking abilities. However, he faced challenges breaking into the Sabres' lineup and suffered an injury during his first shift at the 2023 Buffalo Prospect Challenge. After a brief stint in the AHL and a single NHL game, he was returned to the Western Hockey League (WHL). Despite his talent, some insiders suggested that the Sabres were concerned about Savoie's injury history, specifically recurring shoulder problems, which may have factored into their decision to trade him.
Since joining the Oilers, Savoie has shown flashes of the potential that made him a top prospect. After being acquired by the Oilers, Savoie expressed excitement about joining his hometown team, where he grew up idolizing players like Ryan Nugent-Hopkins. While he hasn't yet become a consistent NHL player, he has impressed in his limited NHL time, and has excelled with the Bakersfield Condors in the AHL, developing his offensive game and all-around play. Oilers President Jeff Jackson has publicly stated that the organization views Savoie as a long-term NHL piece, suggesting that they are committed to his development.
In contrast, Ryan McLeod's tenure with the Sabres has been underwhelming. Brought in to be a reliable third-line center and penalty-killing specialist, McLeod has struggled to provide the consistent defensive presence and offensive contributions the Sabres were hoping for. While he is a solid player, he has not elevated the Sabres enough to end their 13-year playoff drought. Some analysts argue that while McLeod fits well with the Sabres' core, the price they paid to acquire him was too high.
The Savoie trade highlights the inherent risks and rewards of trading prospects. While Savoie's potential is undeniable, there was no guarantee he would develop into a star player. The Sabres, desperate to end their playoff drought, opted for a player in McLeod who they believed could contribute immediately. However, in doing so, they may have sacrificed long-term upside for short-term gains.
Ultimately, the success of the Savoie trade will be judged by what each player accomplishes in the long run. If Savoie blossoms into a top-six forward for the Oilers, while McLeod remains a middling player for the Sabres, the Oilers will be declared the clear winners. However, if McLeod helps the Sabres become a perennial contender, the trade may be viewed more favorably in Buffalo, regardless of Savoie's achievements in Edmonton. As of now, the Oilers seem to be winning, and Savoie appears to be on track to becoming a key piece of their future.
