The Edmonton Oilers are facing a significant talent gap as they head into the new season, lacking a strong pool of prospects. Having traded away draft picks, their situation is concerning. Notably, both Matt Savoie and Sam O'Reilly are players to retain, as Savoie is prepared for NHL action while O'Reilly has potential to develop further. With a 50-man roster full of uncertain prospects, the Oilers must act swiftly to bolster their talent pool.

General Manager Stan Bowman has acknowledged the urgency to sign not only college prospects but also players from European leagues, targeting names like Grigori Kuzmin and Mac Gadowsky. Additionally, Connor McDavid's impending contract extension raises questions about its implications for the team's salary cap strategy, especially with a projected increase to around $104 million.

The Buffalo Sabres made a significant move during the off-season by trading promising prospect Matt Savoie to the Edmonton Oilers in exchange for Ryan McLeod and Tyler Tullio. This trade has begun to show its effects, as McLeod has quickly become a valuable asset for the Sabres. In his first 37 games with Buffalo, McLeod has contributed six goals and 17 points, showcasing his ability to fit into the team's lineup effectively.

Meanwhile, Matt Savoie is making waves in the American Hockey League (AHL) with the Bakersfield Condors, the Oilers' affiliate. He has been on a scoring spree, netting two goals and accumulating seven points in his last three games. Over the past five games, Savoie has tallied four goals and nine points, bringing his season totals to eight goals and 21 points in just 27 games. His recent performance suggests that he is finding his stride, and if he continues this upward trajectory, he may soon earn a call-up to the Oilers' NHL roster.

The developments surrounding both players highlight the ongoing evolution of their careers and the impact of the trade on their respective teams. As the Sabres and Oilers monitor their progress, the potential for Savoie to join the NHL ranks adds an exciting layer to the unfolding story.

The Edmonton Oilers have placed forward Evander Kane on long-term injured reserve due to recent surgeries, following a season where he scored 44 points in 77 games. His return timeline remains uncertain.

In response, the Oilers signed defenceman Travis Dermott to a one-year contract. Dermott, who previously played for the Arizona Coyotes, brings experience as he enters his eighth NHL season. The team also loaned two forwards to their AHL affiliate.