One moment, you`re on the phone, trying to convince a highly-touted prospect to commit to your university hockey program. The next, your own future takes a sharp, unexpected turn towards the pinnacle of professional hockey. Such is the recent reality for forward Isaac Howard, the reigning Hobey Baker Award winner, whose path veered dramatically this past week.
Just days ago, Howard, fresh off being named the top player in NCAA men`s hockey, was focused on his upcoming senior season at Michigan State University and, evidently, pitching the program to young talents like Gavin McKenna. However, as McKenna finalized his commitment to Penn State, Howard`s world was undergoing a more fundamental change.
Tuesday brought the significant news: Isaac Howard, originally a first-round draft pick (31st overall in 2022) of the Tampa Bay Lightning, was traded to the Edmonton Oilers. The move came as contract terms with Tampa Bay could not be finalized, leaving Howard poised for another collegiate year before the Oilers stepped in.
Simultaneously with the trade, Howard put pen to paper on a three-year, entry-level contract with Edmonton, signaling an immediate transition to the professional ranks. His reaction speaks volumes about the sudden shift in perspective.
“I`m super psyched,” Howard, 21, shared with reporters via a Zoom press conference the following day. He described the opportunity as “unreal,” expressing gratitude towards the Lightning organization for facilitating the trade that allowed him to pursue this NHL path now rather than later. “I can`t wait to get started,” he added, clearly enthusiastic about his new hockey home.
Joining a team featuring superstars widely considered among the greatest players in the game certainly amplified his excitement. Howard indicated his eagerness to “share the ice and soak in time” with Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. The prospect of playing alongside such elite talent and having the opportunity to “pick their brains” as he develops at the NHL level presents a significant draw for the young forward. It`s a rapid acceleration from the college campus to arguably hockey`s most high-powered offensive environment.
For Howard, this trade and subsequent signing represent the realization of a professional dream, arriving perhaps a year earlier than anticipated due to the circumstances with his drafting club. The focus now shifts entirely from recruiting college teammates to integrating into an NHL lineup and contributing alongside some of the sport`s very best.
Tristan Blackwood