Four Oilers Forwards Charged with Filling the Gap Left by Savoie’s Injury

The Edmonton Oilers are facing a challenging start to the 2026-27 season due to a growing injury list. Among the most impactful absences is Matt Savoie, who is expected to miss approximately eight weeks with a lower-body injury, adding to concerns following Ryan Nugent-Hopkins’ recent two-week absence.

With key contributors like Jason Dickinson, Mattias Janmark, Alec Regula, and goaltender Frederik Andersen also on the sidelines, the organization must lean on unexpected sources. Several forwards now have the chance—and responsibility—to step into larger roles and help shoulder the offensive burden typically shouldered by Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl.

Vasily Podkolzin

According to line combinations observed during Monday’s practice, Vasily Podkolzin will join the second line beside Draisaitl for the season opener. This alignment isn’t surprising, as Podkolzin has previously thrived alongside the German star, who has openly praised the young forward’s play.

While not known as a high-volume scorer, Podkolzin has shown consistent value through secondary production. His career year in 2025-26 — posting 19 goals and 35 points — offers optimism that he can further elevate his game when called upon to contribute more heavily.

Kasperi Kapanen

For Kasperi Kapanen, maintaining health will be the top priority. The Oilers re-signed him to a one-year, $2.6 million contract on opening day of free agency, recognizing his potential fit within the lineup. A full season could significantly offset the loss of Savoie’s depth scoring.

Last season, Kapanen recorded eight goals and 17 points across just 41 appearances. When available, his speed and experience provide a reliable boost to the forward group—a dynamic that becomes even more critical in Savoie’s absence.

Isaac Howard

Perhaps no player benefits more from Savoie’s injury than Isaac Howard. With a prime opportunity to skate alongside McDavid and Zach Hyman on the top line, Howard enters his second pro season with a chance to prove himself at the NHL level.

Seizing this moment carries high stakes. Proving himself now could secure Howard’s long-term future with the club, while a missed opportunity might delay his path to stardom. All eyes will be watching how quickly he adapts to elevated competition and increased responsibility.

Trent Frederic

Trent Frederic enters the new coaching era under Mike Babcock with renewed purpose. After struggling to score just four goals in 74 games last season—and falling short of expectations tied to his eight-year extension—he now has a fresh slate to redefine his role.

Babcock emphasized that every player on the roster will have an important part to play, signaling a shift from previous seasons where roles were less defined. For Frederic, capitalizing on this chance means delivering consistent offensive contributions and reestablishing credibility with both coaches and fans alike.

Big Opportunity for These Four Oilers

As the Oilers begin the 2026-27 campaign shorthanded by injuries, players like Podkolzin, Kapanen, Howard, and Frederic find themselves thrust into pivotal positions. Each brings unique strengths to the table, offering hope that someone will rise to meet the challenge posed by Savoie’s absence.

Though uncertainty lingers around the duration of the team’s injury woes, one thing remains certain: collective effort from across the roster will determine whether Edmonton can overcome early adversity and build momentum as the season progresses.

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