An over-ripened Matthew Savoie would be a sign of a true winner franchise in Edmonton: 9 Things.
But in hockey-mad markets such as Edmonton, the wheel never really stops turning.
So, without any further delay, hope you enjoy this mid-summer edition of…
9 Things
9. Rest in Peace Alex Janvier, the respected First Nations artist whose work included the beautiful mural in Ford Hall at Rogers Place. He was eighty-nine.
8. Connor McDavid won Best NHL Player at the ESPY’s this past week. That is three years straight for McDavid. Evander Kane was in attendance and looking resplendent as always.
7. A small but vocal minority took issue with Connor McDavid out on the water and Evander Kane on the golf course this off-season. My advice? Get a life. These two players clearly have.
6. This interesting tidbit from NHL Edge: Evan Bouchard led the league in 2023-24 with 112 shots taken above 90 MPH. Bouchard added 38 more in the playoffs. A threat to score on his own, the very presence of that shot effectively spreads out D-zone coverage especially on the man advantage.
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5. Mattias Ekholm has fit this franchise like a glove on and off the ice. A good illustration came in a social media message to fans this past week, which in-part read: “We are beyond grateful for the way this city has welcomed us” and “Keep on believing, see you in the Fall.”
4. Well-known and respected player agent Gerry Johannson was on Oilers Now! with Bob Stauffer this past Friday. Gerry has a somewhat unique perspective in that he lives in the city. He also represents the Savoie brothers. Johansson calls the Matthew deal “a great trade for Edmonton, and Matt is really excited.” It is believed that Carter Savoie, who was not qualified, may have an AHL option with the Oilers. More on Matt Savoie’s path forward in a minute…
