On Tuesday morning, the Blackhawks and GM Kyle Davidson offered fans a tiny oasis in a time completely devoid of any Blackhawks-related news: they signed forward Samuel Savoie to his entry-level contract.
History
A New Brunswick native, Savoie got his start with his province’s midget leagues before his time with the Gatineau Olympiques of the QMJHL, which began in the 2020-21 season. After tallying nine points in 27 games that year, he quickly picked things up in his new league, scoring 33 points the next year. After that campaign, he was drafted by Chicago in the third round, 81st overall. He made good on the Blackhawks’ faith in him, exploding for career highs in goals (26), assists (33) and points (59), and tying his career best in game-winning goals (4). He ranked among the best of the Olympiques in nearly every offensive category.
Contract Details
The 19-year-old's deal is for three years with a $878,333.33 cap hit each year, and the deal ends at the end of the 2025-26 season. He’s the fourth CHL prospect from last year’s draft class to put pen to paper for the Blackhawks, joining a group that includes Kevin Korchinski, Gavin Hayes and Paul Ludwinski.
Outlook
Savoie will likely return to the Olympiques in the upcoming season as the team hopes to take home a QMJHL championship. He won’t have the help of recently drafted Blackhawk Marcel Marcel, who already signed with the AHL-affiliate Rockford IceHogs to play there this upcoming season. After being drafted in the third round last season, Savoie is a valuable commodity for the Blackhawks, and will receive every opportunity to move up the ranks toward the NHL as early as possible. Neither side has to worry about the financial side for another three years, instead opting to put all their efforts into turning Savoie into a key contributor.
