In a swift turn of events, Hobey Baker Award winner Isaac Howard is poised to begin his professional hockey journey with the Edmonton Oilers. The 21-year-old forward, recognized as the top player in NCAA men`s hockey, was acquired by the Oilers from the Tampa Bay Lightning this week and subsequently signed a three-year entry-level contract.
A Rapid Transition from College Plans to the NHL
Just days before the trade, Howard`s focus was firmly on his senior season at Michigan State University. He was reportedly even involved in recruiting efforts, attempting to convince promising young talent Gavin McKenna to join him in the Spartans` lineup. However, the landscape of his career changed dramatically after contract discussions with the Lightning, who drafted him 31st overall in 2022, did not result in an agreement amenable to both parties.
His unexpected move to Edmonton represents an immediate shift from the collegiate path to the demanding world of the National Hockey League. It`s a transition that Howard appears more than ready to embrace.
“Super Psyched” for an “Unreal Opportunity”
Speaking to reporters following the announcement, Howard expressed considerable enthusiasm for his new team and the prospect of playing in Edmonton. “I`m super psyched,” he stated during a press conference. “It`s such an unreal opportunity.” He conveyed gratitude towards the Tampa Bay organization for facilitating the trade, acknowledging the move opens a significant new chapter.
Howard described Edmonton as a “cool place” and emphasized that he “couldn`t be happier” with the outcome. This level of excitement suggests a player eager to integrate into the Oilers` environment and contribute to a roster aiming for top-tier success.
Eager to Join Elite Company
A particular point of anticipation for Howard is the chance to play alongside two of the game`s most dominant forces, Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. The opportunity to share the ice with players he describes as “the two greatest players in hockey” is clearly not lost on the young forward.
Beyond competing alongside them, Howard looks forward to the developmental benefits of being in such close proximity to elite talent. He plans to “pick their brains” and learn from their experience as he adapts his game to the professional level. This indicates a player focused not just on immediate play, but on long-term growth and maximizing his potential within a high-performance environment.
Howard`s arrival injects fresh energy and notable skill into the Oilers` prospect pool. The abrupt shift from collegiate recruiting to signing an NHL contract marks a significant and exciting milestone in his burgeoning hockey career, one he is clearly “super psyched” to begin.
