Similar to the Ike Howard trade this off-season, with some fans considering it a steal. Many fans saw last year’s swap with the Buffalo Sabres in a similar light. In 2024, the Oilers dealt away Ryan McLeod along with prospect Tyler Tullio for the Sabres 2022 Ninth overall selection, forward Matthew Savoie.
Although he was reportedly denied exceptional status, Savoie has been a highly touted hockey prospect for years. The Western Hockey League even made exceptions for Savoie years ago, allowing him to play more games than most players at his age.
He has been a prolific scorer at every level he has played, as evidenced by his play with the Oilers AHL-affiliate the Bakersfield Condors this past year in his rookie pro season.