Connor McDavid‘s Edmonton Oilers continue their aggressive offseason, acquiring Hobey Baker Award winner Isaac Howard from the Tampa Bay Lightning in a high-profile trade. The move sends Edmonton’s 2024 first-round pick, Sam O’Reilly, the other way as both teams adjust their rosters for another Stanley Cup run.
Howard, who starred at Michigan State last season with 26 goals and 26 assists in 37 games, was named the top collegiate player in the U.S. and was expected to return to college. However, reported disagreements with the Lightning front office led to a trade request—and Edmonton seized the opportunity.
The Oilers, coming off back-to-back Stanley Cup Final losses to the Florida Panthers, made the deal to immediately strengthen their depth around Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl in a critical season ahead.
Why did the Oilers target Isaac Howard?
NHL insider Frank Seravalli reported that Edmonton believes Howard is NHL-ready and plans to sign him for the 2025–26 season: “Oilers believe Isaac Howard is ready to enter [the] NHL immediately – expected to sign, leave [Michigan State], and be in Edmonton’s opening night lineup.”
After losing Corey Perry and trading Viktor Arvidsson, Edmonton urgently needed help in its bottom-six forward group. Howard brings elite college production, speed, and offensive upside—key elements the Oilers lacked in the Final.
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What comes next for Howard and Edmonton?
Howard is expected to sign with the Oilers and join the team in training camp. His addition could provide immediate support for McDavid’s title pursuit, especially in a year where Edmonton’s front office is under pressure to win. The deal shows how serious Edmonton is about returning to the Stanley Cup Final—and winning it this time.
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