Isaac Howard is eager to begin his NHL journey with the Edmonton Oilers after his recent trade from Tampa Bay. Speaking to the media on Tuesday, Howard highlighted the incredible chance to play alongside stars Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, emphasizing the valuable lessons he hopes to learn from them. The prospect sees this “Connor McDavid NHL career opportunity” as a significant step forward for his development.
Details of Howard’s Trade and Contract Agreement
The Edmonton Oilers acquired Isaac Howard in exchange for Sam O’Reilly and promptly signed Howard to an entry-level contract starting in the 2025-26 season, securing him for the next three years. This move signals the team’s belief in Howard’s potential to become a consistent and reliable forward on their roster.
Howard’s Impressive NCAA Track Record Suggests Strong Potential
Last season, Howard tallied 26 goals in 37 games at Michigan State University, a performance that earned him the prestigious Hobey Baker Award, given to the top NCAA men’s hockey player. His strong offensive output and demonstrated skill mark him as a promising talent capable of contributing at the NHL level.
Background and International Experience
Originally selected 31st overall by Tampa Bay in the 2022 NHL Draft, Howard brings international experience as well, having won two gold medals competing for Team USA. These achievements add to his profile as a player with both skill and experience on significant stages.
Howard’s Personal Connection and Fit with the Oilers
Howard revealed that Edmonton was his preferred destination in the NHL, feeling the team’s fast-paced and skilled style aligns well with his own playing approach. He shared,
“Yeah. I mean, I think that’s, that’s an unreal opportunity,”
expressing admiration for McDavid and Draisaitl as two of the world’s best players. He eagerly anticipates playing alongside and learning from them, noting,
“I can’t wait to share the ice with Leon and Connor and pick their brains. They’re both – They’re different in their own ways, and they’re so talented and so good.”
Reflecting on the Oilers’ style, Howard said,
“I watched every single Oilers playoff game the last couple years. You know, I think just watching, it’s like it’s such a high pace, skilled and fast, like, work ethic first. I think that’s kind of exactly my game, and I think that’s why this could be such a great fit, and you know, why I was really excited.”
Howard’s Views on Gavin McKenna’s Transfer to Penn State
Recently, Howard addressed his teammate Gavin McKenna’s decision to transfer from Michigan State to Penn State after signing a $700,000 NIL deal. While Howard thinks this move is beneficial for college hockey overall, he personally prefers Michigan State and attempted to persuade McKenna to stay. He commented,
“I think it’s going to be a good, cool challenge for college hockey. Obviously, I think he should have went here in my opinion, but still cool nonetheless for the Big Ten and for college hockey.”
Looking Ahead: Howard’s Future with the Oilers
Isaac Howard’s acquisition represents a strategic investment in youthful talent by the Edmonton Oilers, who aim to deepen their roster with players capable of growing alongside elite stars like Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. Howard’s excitement and confidence suggest he is ready to embrace the challenges of the NHL, and his entry-level contract sets the stage for a multi-year development trajectory with the team. Observers will be keen to see how Howard’s game adapts and evolves within the Oilers’ dynamic lineup in the coming seasons.