AdminEAST LANSING, Mich. (WILX) – Isaac Howard, a junior forward from Michigan State, has signed a three-year entry-level deal with the NHL’s Edmonton Oilers following the Oilers’ acquisition of his rights from the Tampa Bay Lightning on Tuesday.
The winner of the Hobey Baker Award in 2025 has chosen to give up his final year of eligibility at Michigan State.
At 21 years old, Howard was drafted in the first round of the 2022 NHL Draft by the Tampa Bay Lightning. However, after unsuccessful contract discussions between Howard and Tampa Bay earlier this spring, he expressed his plan to return to Michigan State for his senior year.
That changed on Tuesday night, as Edmonton traded forward Sam O’Reilly to the Lightning in exchange for Howard and finalized a three-year entry-level contract with him. Last season, Howard achieved 26 goals and 26 assists, making him the first Spartan to earn the Hobey Baker Award since Ryan Miller in 2001.
Currently, Michigan State hockey has two available slots on its roster for the 2025-26 season.
Subscribe to our News 10 newsletter and YouTube channel for the most recent updates on local news and weather. If you’re looking to hire or expand your business through advertising, Gray Digital Media serves as your comprehensive marketing solution.
Admin
