 He was named the Canadian Hockey League (CHL) best defenceman, recognizing his remarkable season with the Moncton Wildcats of the QMJHL in 2009–10.The next year, while still being eligible to play for a junior team, the Columbus Blue Jackets assigned him to play with the Springfield Falcons, the team's American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate.After an excellent pro training camp, the Blue Jackets decided Savard would progress faster at the AHL, following his high marks in junior hockey the former year.