This morning, news broke that former Oilers prospect Carter Savoie has signed with TPS in the Finnish Elite League.

The 22 year old Edmonton native was drafted by the Oilers in the fourth round of the 2020 draft, and has played the last two seasons with the AHL’s Bakersfield Condors. In 63 games last season, Savoie scored 10 goals and 22 points. After not receiving a qualifying offer from the Oilers as an RFA, Carter Savoie was a free agent, and wasn’t able to secure a deal with another NHL organization.

Savoie went unqualified by the Oilers, but according to Bob Stauffer, the team came back around to offer him an AHL deal. After acquiring his brother Matthew Savoie, who’s likely to play in the AHL this season, it’s surprising to hear that Carter would’ve declined that opportunity to pursue pro hockey overseas. Perhaps he believes playing top minutes there will be a better opportunity to showcase his talent for the NHL.

It’s always disappointing to see a prospect depart the organization, especially when Carter had the hometown connection with the Oilers and his brother Matthew joining the team as a top prospect. Realistically, the Oilers won’t be losing much – and have acquired the better Savoie brother anyway.