The Edmonton Oilers made a bold move this summer by acquiring Isaac Howard from the Tampa Bay Lightning in a one-for-one swap for Sam O’Reilly. Howard didn’t just come with trade value — he’s the reigning Hobey Baker Award winner, fresh off a dominant 26-goal, 26-assist season in 37 games at Michigan State.
When Tampa drafted him 31st overall in 2022, many saw a high-upside two-way winger with offensive flair. But Howard and the Lightning never landed on a contract, and he had hinted at returning to school — putting Tampa in a tight spot. That pushed the Lightning’s hand, and Edmonton pounced. The Oilers locked him down with a three-year entry-level contract, giving Howard his first real chance to chase the NHL dream.
Let’s dig into what Howard brings, the challenges ahead, and whether he and Matthew Savoie are head-to-head in the same fight.
NCAA & development path
Howard started his collegiate career at Minnesota Duluth, where his freshman output was modest: 6 goals and 11 assists in 35 games. After transferring to Michigan State, his game exploded. In his junior season, he scored 52 points in 37 games (26 goals, 26 assists) — leading to multiple conference honors and the Hobey Baker. His ascension was not just statistical; he became a dominant two-way presence, taking on tough competition and playing under pressure.
On the international stage, Howard is no stranger to big games. He has represented the U.S. in World Juniors, posting a strong 7 goals and 2 assists in 7 games in the 2024 tournament, helping his squad win gold. He also participated in the 2025 World Championship, earning an assist in limited action.
That mix of production, high-pressure experience, and two-way growth has made Howard into one of the NHL’s top prospects. It is a good upside bet to make — one that Edmonton hopes will pay off quickly.
What he brings to Edmonton
Offensive Skill & Scoring Instincts
Howard’s shot is dangerous and versatile. He can pick corners from midrange or unleash a quick wrister from the slot. While not the biggest winger (5’11,190 lbs) , he plays with smart edge work, uses deceptive release timing, and counters defenders with strong playmaking instincts.
Two-way maturity
One of Howard’s biggest assets is his attention off the puck. Over his time at MSU, he improved in puck pursuit, defensive anticipation, and support coverage. For Edmonton, this reduces some of the common rookie growing pains — especially in his role as a winger who must track back.
Cost-control & fit
Signing Howard doesn’t clutter the payroll. His entry-level contract gives Edmonton flexibility. The Oilers trimmed out veterans this offseason, clearing space to be strategic with young players like Howard.
Internal competition
Matthew Savoie is a top prospect as well. Howard doesn’t necessarily compete for exactly the same role — Savoie might aim for a center or pivot role, while Howard’s a winger. That said, their overlap in offensive skill sets means that Howard will have to outperform or at least differentiate himself to secure a roster spot.
Roster chances & challenges
Can Howard stick in Edmonton’s top 9 this season? It’s possible, but not guaranteed.
Pros:
- His offensive upside and matured two-way game make him more NHL-ready than many rookies.
- Edmonton might view him as a sleeper that could contribute on middle lines, especially during injury stretches.
- The fit is good given their roster reset and need for controlled-cost scoring.
Cons:
- He needs to show consistency at camp. One flashy preseason game won’t be enough.
- Defensive reliability will be under the microscope.
- Competition is stiff — Savoie, other rookies, and veterans all want playing time.
- The jump from NCAA to NHL is steep. Speed, physicality, and pace adjustments will test him.
If Howard can survive those hurdles, he likely won’t be buried in the minors for long.
Final thoughts
Isaac Howard brings a promising mix of scoring flair, two-way awareness, and developed maturity that elevates his chances of making Edmonton’s roster sooner rather than later. Whether he’s competing with Savoie or carving a spot on his own, his early performances at camp and preseason will be telling.
For Edmonton, it’s a low-risk, high-upside gamble on youthful offense. If Howard can show he belongs, he might be a dark horse breakout in 2025-26.