In a move that signals differing organizational strategies regarding prospect development and readiness, the Edmonton Oilers have completed a significant transaction, acquiring forward Isaac Howard from the Tampa Bay Lightning. In return, the Lightning receive forward Sam O`Reilly, who was recently selected by the Oilers in the first round of the 2024 NHL Entry Draft.
The exchange sees the Oilers bring in a player with high-level collegiate success and a prestigious award to his name. Howard, a 21-year-old left-shot winger, was originally drafted 31st overall by the Lightning in the 2022 NHL Draft. His recent season at Michigan State was nothing short of spectacular. Across 37 games in the 2024-25 NCAA campaign, Howard recorded an impressive 52 points, split evenly with 26 goals and 26 assists. These exceptional totals earned him the coveted Hobey Baker Award, presented annually to the top player in NCAA men`s hockey. Over his two seasons with the Spartans, Howard compiled 88 points (34 goals, 54 assists) over 73 contests. The Oilers also announced that Howard has signed a three-year Entry Level Contract set to commence in the 2025-26 season, suggesting their belief he is on a path to potentially contribute relatively soon. Adding to his resume, Howard was part of the victorious U.S. team at the 2025 World Hockey Championship, tallying one assist in four games.
Departing from Edmonton is 19-year-old Sam O`Reilly. Drafted just weeks prior to this trade with the 32nd overall pick in the 2024 draft, O`Reilly recently completed a successful season with the London Knights of the Ontario Hockey League. In 62 regular-season games, he registered 71 points (28 goals). His impact was particularly felt in the postseason, where he added 22 points (seven goals) in 17 playoff games, helping the Knights secure the J. Ross Robertson Cup. O`Reilly also played a key role in London`s victory at the prestigious Memorial Cup tournament, contributing five points (two goals) in five games as the Knights claimed their third Memorial Cup title.
This trade presents a fascinating contrast. The Oilers are opting for a player who is two years older, has a proven track record of elite performance at the NCAA level, and has already captured college hockey`s highest individual honor. While trading a recent first-round pick might raise a few eyebrows, the acquisition of a Hobey Baker winner indicates a clear focus on bringing in a player potentially closer to NHL impact, or perhaps one whose collegiate development trajectory Edmonton`s scouting staff strongly believes in. For the Tampa Bay Lightning, the move allows them to acquire a younger asset in O`Reilly, who boasts impressive junior hockey success, including significant contributions to a Memorial Cup championship team. This aligns with a strategy that may prioritize acquiring younger players with high draft pedigree and substantial potential, allowing them more time within their development system.
Ultimately, the success of this trade for both the Oilers and the Lightning will be measured by the future contributions of Isaac Howard in Edmonton and Sam O`Reilly in Tampa Bay. It is a calculated risk by both franchises, exchanging different profiles of promising young talent in the hopes of gaining a future advantage.
