Just days after contemplating another NCAA season and attempting to recruit talent to his university team, Hobey Baker Award winner Isaac Howard`s hockey future took a decisive and thrilling turn. What began with plans rooted in collegiate hockey ended abruptly with a trade to the National Hockey League`s Edmonton Oilers and the signing of his first professional contract.
The 21-year-old forward, a highly-regarded prospect originally selected 31st overall in the 2022 NHL Entry Draft by the Tampa Bay Lightning, was acquired by the Oilers in a transaction completed earlier this week. The trade paved the way for Howard to finalize his transition to the professional ranks, culminating in him putting pen to paper on a three-year entry-level contract with the Edmonton club.
Speaking to the media following the announcement, Howard made no attempt to temper his excitement. “I`m super psyched,” he stated with clear enthusiasm. He described the move as “such an unreal opportunity,” expressing genuine gratitude towards the Lightning organization for working to facilitate the trade, particularly after he had been unable to reach contract terms with them previously. “I can`t wait to get started,” he added, conveying his belief that Edmonton felt like “such a cool place” and reiterating that he “couldn`t be happier” with the outcome.
Howard`s situation with Tampa Bay had reached an impasse regarding his entry-level contract, leading him to prepare for a return to Michigan State University for his senior year. It was during this period he was, with perhaps a touch of unintended irony given the swift turn of events, trying to persuade other young prospects, such as Gavin McKenna, to join him there. Professional hockey, however, often operates on timelines that can change in an instant, rendering previous plans obsolete.
Now, instead of focusing on collegiate rivalries and campus recruitment, Howard`s immediate future involves joining a roster featuring some of the sport`s most dominant figures. The prospect of sharing the ice and locker room with players like Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl is, understandably, a paramount source of his palpable anticipation.
“I can`t wait to share the ice and soak in time with McDavid and Draisaitl,” Howard remarked, highlighting his eagerness to learn from their experience and expertise. He looks forward to “pick their brains as he develops at the NHL level,” acknowledging the unique apprenticeship opportunity that comes with joining a team boasting such elite talent. It`s not every day a young player gets the chance for direct mentorship from hockey royalty.
For Isaac Howard, the brief uncertainty surrounding his professional trajectory has swiftly been replaced by immense excitement and focus on the future. His journey in the National Hockey League is officially set to commence, and he is, by all accounts, genuinely and enthusiastically “super psyched” that it will be with the Edmonton Oilers.