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.