In a notable and somewhat surprising move following the recent NHL Entry Draft, the Edmonton Oilers have opted to part ways with their 2024 first-round selection. Forward Sam O`Reilly, chosen 32nd overall just weeks ago, is headed to the Tampa Bay Lightning.
The return for O`Reilly is 21-year-old forward Isaac Howard, a prospect originally drafted 31st overall by the Lightning in the 2022 NHL Draft. The Oilers announced the acquisition on Tuesday night, immediately followed by the news that Howard has signed a three-year Entry Level Contract (ELC) set to begin in the 2025-26 season.
Howard arrives in Edmonton fresh off a spectacular collegiate season that saw him earn one of the most prestigious individual honors in NCAA hockey: the Hobey Baker Award, presented annually to the top player in men`s college hockey. Skating for Michigan State, the five-foot-11 left-shot winger posted eye-popping numbers in 2024-25, registering 26 goals and 26 assists for a total of 52 points in just 37 games. His two seasons at Michigan State were highly productive, amassing 88 points (34 goals, 54 assists) over 73 contests. This level of high-end offensive production from a top NCAA program is clearly what caught the Oilers` attention.
Adding to his recent accolades, Howard also earned a gold medal with the United States at the 2025 World Hockey Championship, contributing one assist in four appearances.
On the other side of the transaction is Sam O`Reilly, the 19-year-old forward who spent last season dominating the junior circuit with the London Knights of the Ontario Hockey League. O`Reilly put up strong offensive numbers, recording 28 goals and 71 points across 62 regular-season games.
However, O`Reilly truly distinguished himself in the high-pressure environment of the OHL playoffs. He played a key role in the Knights securing back-to-back J. Ross Robertson Cups as OHL champions, tallying seven goals and 22 points in 17 playoff games. His plus-24 rating during the postseason ranked third among all London skaters. His exceptional performance continued into the Memorial Cup tournament, where he helped London claim the coveted championship, adding two goals and five points in five games. O`Reilly brought a demonstrable winning pedigree from the junior level.
Analyzing the trade reveals a clear strategic divergence. The Oilers are trading a promising forward, newly drafted and successful at the junior level, for a slightly older forward who has proven elite offensive capabilities in the NCAA and is ready to turn professional. It`s a quick pivot on a recent first-round pick, which might raise an eyebrow or two – almost as if the scouting department held a quick reconsideration. Perhaps the organization prioritized Howard`s proven track record against older competition and his immediate readiness to sign an ELC over O`Reilly`s undeniable success in major junior hockey. For the Lightning, they acquire a younger forward with significant potential and valuable championship experience to integrate into their development system.
Ultimately, this transaction represents a classic `prospect for prospect` deal, but one that swaps players from different development leagues and with differing levels of immediate readiness. Both Edmonton and Tampa Bay acquire players they believe will enhance their organizational depth, making this a calculated gamble designed to address specific needs or capitalize on perceived value in their respective pipelines.
