The Edmonton Oilers are determined to strengthen their lineup after yet another defeat in the Stanley Cup Final. Connor McDavid and the rest of the team are closely watching the organization’s moves this NHL offseason—and it may all lead to a big trade for one of the Tampa Bay Lightning’s top prospects.
The Oilers aren’t going anywhere—in fact, they’re entering the 2025-26 NHL season with revamped expectations and a hunger for glory. However, changes are needed to boost the lineup. McDavid and Draisaitl will be the team’s biggest beacons of hope, but the story might not end with them.
Instead, one of the most exciting prospects in the NHL could be headed to Alberta after contract negotiations with Tampa Bay stalled. As rumored around the league, the Oilers are among the teams showing interest in Isaac Howard, the former 2022 first round selection by the Lightning.
Striking oil
Although the initial offer for Howard’s rights was reportedly turned down by Tampa Bay, Edmonton isn’t giving up. Determined to secure a key piece for McDavid—and for the future—the Oilers continue to knock on the Bolts’ door.
Isaac Howard, #31 pick by the Tampa Bay Lightning, poses for a portrait during the 2022 Upper Deck NHL Draft at Bell Centre on July 07, 2022 in Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
“At some point this week, Isaac Howard’s camp thought he was an Oiler and the Oilers thought the deal was done. But, it still hasn’t come to fruition,” insider Frank Seravalli stated. “The Oilers’ offer was a first rounder. It seems like they haven’t given up on him.“
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Hobey Baker
Howard would definitely be an exciting addition to the Oilers’ forwards group. The 21-year-old talent was recently named the NCAA’s Top Collegiate Player, receiving the Hobey Baker Award for his production in the 2024-25 campaign.
Moreover, he’s coming off a World Championship gold medal with the U.S. national team. Howard, however, has yet to agree to an entry-level contract with the Lightning in the NHL. Now, all signs indicate the two parties may have no choice but to part ways.
Journeyman joins Edmonton
30-year-old Curtis Lazar is signing a one-year, one-way contract with the Oilers as announced by the organization through its social media. Lazar will now play for his seventh team in his NHL career. The former first-round selection in 2017 had previously played for the Oilers’ affiliate in the WHL, the Edmonton Oil Kings.
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