In a notable transaction that shifts the landscape of both organizations` prospect pools, the Edmonton Oilers announced Tuesday night they have acquired forward Isaac Howard from the Tampa Bay Lightning. Heading to Tampa Bay in return is forward Sam O`Reilly, whom the Oilers selected just last year with the 32nd overall pick in the 2024 NHL Entry Draft.
Isaac Howard, a 21-year-old left-shot winger, arrives in Edmonton following an exceptional collegiate season. Skating with Michigan State University in 2024-25, the five-foot-11 forward posted an impressive 52 points (26 goals, 26 assists) in just 37 games. This dominant performance earned Howard the prestigious Hobey Baker Award, presented annually to the top player in NCAA men`s ice hockey – a significant achievement marking him as the best college player in the nation. Howard was originally drafted 31st overall by the Lightning in the 2022 NHL Draft and compiled a strong record over two seasons at Michigan State, totaling 88 points in 73 games. Further demonstrating his pedigree, Howard recently added a gold medal to his resume, contributing to Team USA`s victory at the 2025 World Hockey Championship. The Oilers wasted no time, confirming that Howard has also agreed to a three-year entry-level contract (ELC) that will commence with the 2025-26 season.
Departing the Oilers is Sam O`Reilly. The 19-year-old forward had a highly productive season with the London Knights of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) in 2024-25. He recorded 71 points (28 goals, 43 assists) in 62 regular-season games. O`Reilly then elevated his game during the OHL playoffs, tallying 22 points (7 goals, 15 assists) in 17 games, playing a crucial role as the Knights secured the J. Ross Robertson Cup for a second consecutive year. His strong two-way game and production also made him a key contributor to London`s triumph in the Memorial Cup tournament, where he helped the team capture Canadian junior hockey`s ultimate championship.
This trade represents a fascinating divergence in prospect evaluation. For the Edmonton Oilers, the decision to trade a first-round pick just over a year after selecting him, especially one who just had a dominant junior season and won major championships, might seem counter-intuitive. However, the acquisition of Howard brings a player with undeniable high-end skill and production proven at a more advanced level (NCAA vs. OHL), underscored by the Hobey Baker Award. It suggests the Oilers are prioritizing a player who appears closer to being NHL-ready and has demonstrated elite performance against older competition. It`s a calculated move betting on Howard`s recent collegiate success translating directly to the professional ranks.
From the Tampa Bay Lightning`s perspective, they acquire a younger prospect in O`Reilly who boasts a strong junior resume and the invaluable experience of winning both an OHL title and the Memorial Cup. While Howard`s NCAA numbers are gaudy, perhaps Tampa Bay`s evaluation of his potential NHL impact or fit within their system differed, leading them to target O`Reilly`s combination of skill, age, and demonstrated success in high-pressure junior environments.
Ultimately, both organizations are exchanging a significant piece of their future for another. The Oilers acquire a player who just dominated college hockey and won its top award, signing him immediately to his entry-level deal. The Lightning acquire a younger forward who played a pivotal role on the top junior team in Canada. Time, as always in hockey trades, will be the ultimate judge of which team made the more advantageous move.
Tristan Blackwood