Isaac Howard, Hobey Baker Winner, Traded to Oilers; Sam O'Reilly Goes to Lightning

The Edmonton Oilers announced on Tuesday night that they have acquired Isaac Howard, the reigning Hobey Baker Award winner, from the Tampa Bay Lightning. In exchange, the Oilers traded forward prospect Sam O’Reilly. Howard, 21, had an outstanding season at Michigan State, scoring 26 goals and 52 points in 37 games, leading his team in points.

The Lightning drafted Howard as the 31st pick in the 2022 NHL Draft. Despite encouragement to turn professional, he couldn't reach a deal with the Lightning. Howard intended to return to Michigan State for his senior year to become an unrestricted free agent. By trading Howard's rights, the Lightning received O’Reilly, a 19-year-old center from the London Knights, who had a successful season with 98 points in 84 games in 2024-25.

Howard has signed a three-year entry-level contract with the Oilers, preventing his return to college. His signing provides the Oilers with a cost-effective top-nine scorer and power-play contributor. Howard is expected to play in the NHL immediately, as the Lightning were not ready to offer him a significant role. O’Reilly, on the other hand, was not suited to fill the same role for the Oilers.

The trade occurred on the day Michigan State finished as runner-ups in the Gavin McKenna sweepstakes, impacting their prospects for the upcoming college season. The team had high expectations for the season with Howard, top goaltender Trey Augustine, and a strong group of returning players, along with promising freshmen like Cayden Lindstrom and Ryker Lee.