The Edmonton Oilers are facing a critical juncture early in the 2025-26 season, and a potential solution to their scoring woes might just be found in rookie forward Isaac Howard. After a promising start that saw him score his first NHL goal, the question now is whether the 21-year-old winger is ready for a more prominent role in the Oilers' top six.
Howard's journey to this point has been impressive. Born on March 30, 2004, the Hudson, Wisconsin native was drafted 31st overall by the Tampa Bay Lightning in the 2022 NHL Entry Draft. After being traded to Edmonton for Sam O'Reilly in July 2025, Howard signed a three-year, entry-level contract with the Oilers. Before turning pro, Howard enjoyed a successful college career, first with the Minnesota Duluth Bulldogs and then with the Michigan State Spartans. In 2025, he won the Hobey Baker Award as the top men's player in NCAA ice hockey after recording 26 goals and 26 assists in 37 games for Michigan State.
Howard's strengths lie in his offensive instincts and versatility. He is known as a natural scorer with the ability to make plays in tight spaces. Scouts have noted his quickness, tenacity, and knack for finding soft spots in the offensive zone. While not possessing elite speed or a booming shot, Howard compensates with his hockey IQ and willingness to attack the net.
Making the jump from college to the NHL is rarely seamless, and initial expectations for Howard should be tempered. Some analysts believe it might be a stretch to immediately plug him into a top-line role with Connor McDavid or Leon Draisaitl. The pace and intensity of the NHL are a significant step up, and it may take time for Howard to adjust. However, the Oilers have a need for cost-effective offensive options, and Howard's skill set could be a valuable asset.
In the Oilers' recent game against the Ottawa Senators, Howard was promoted to the top line alongside McDavid and Draisaitl and promptly scored his first NHL goal. This immediate success suggests that he might be further along in his development than initially anticipated. While Vasily Podkolzin has primarily occupied that spot, Howard's offensive capabilities could provide a different dynamic.
Oilers coach Kris Knoblauch has been gradually increasing Howard's ice time, suggesting a growing confidence in the young player. As the Oilers seek to find the right combinations to spark their offense, giving Howard a sustained opportunity in the top six could be a worthwhile experiment.
Of course, there are risks involved. Relying too heavily on a rookie can put undue pressure on them, and Howard will need to prove he can consistently perform at the NHL level. There have also been recent reports that Howard is potentially on the trade block, though that could simply be due to the Oilers needing to manage their roster.
Ultimately, the decision of whether to feature Howard in the top six will depend on his performance, his chemistry with potential linemates, and the overall needs of the team. But given his talent, his early success, and the Oilers' current situation, it's certainly time to see what Isaac Howard can do with a bigger opportunity.
