Edmonton Oilers rookie Ike Howard is set to receive a significant opportunity, skating alongside Connor McDavid on the team's top line. Head Coach Kris Knoblauch confirmed the arrangement, citing Howard's recent strong play and overall growth as the reason for the promotion. As the Oilers embark on a road trip with back-to-back games against the Seattle Kraken and Vancouver Canucks, all eyes will be on the newly formed duo.
Howard's approach to playing with McDavid is refreshingly simple: stick to his game. In essence, Howard's strategy revolves around capitalizing on McDavid's exceptional playmaking abilities. "He's the best player in the world. He plays with so much pace. I just try to get open — he'll find me," Howard stated, underscoring his confidence in McDavid's vision and puck-distribution skills.
Knoblauch isn't looking to overhaul Howard's style, and has told him to simply keep playing his game. "With him being so young and his style of game… the best thing is often to just let him play," the coach said. "We're putting him there because he's been playing some pretty good hockey. We don't want him doing anything different". Howard echoed this sentiment, noting, "No pressure from the coach or anything like that. It's just pretty much just play the same game… really nothing else is different".
The young forward sees this opportunity as a major confidence boost. "It's awesome," Howard said. "As a young player, all you can ask for is an opportunity. I'm just trying to play my game, keep working hard, and build off it". Whether on the first or fourth line, Howard believes he's earning chances because he’s consistently improving his game.
Howard's arrival in Edmonton has stirred considerable debate about where he best fits within the lineup. Some analysts suggest he could flourish alongside McDavid and winger Zach Hyman, emphasizing the potential for immediate chemistry between a rookie sniper, an elite setup man, and a strong net-front presence. Others believe Howard's playmaking skills and offensive potential could be better utilized to elevate players on a separate line with Leon Draisaitl.
The Oilers' acquisition of Howard was a strategic move, with the team trading center Sam O'Reilly to Tampa Bay Lightning to acquire the promising forward. Howard's decision to leave Michigan State and pursue an NHL career with the Oilers underscores his determination and confidence in his abilities. In his final collegiate season, Howard recorded 26 goals and 26 assists in 37 games, showcasing his offensive prowess and earning him the Hobey Baker Award as the top player in men's NCAA hockey.
While it remains to be seen how Howard will perform consistently on the top line, his initial approach is grounded in simplicity and trust in his linemates. Howard's focus will be on getting open and capitalizing on the opportunities created by McDavid. The coaching staff, led by Knoblauch, appears committed to nurturing Howard's talent by allowing him to play his natural game without undue pressure. This opportunity alongside McDavid represents a significant step in Howard's development and a chance for the Oilers to further solidify their offensive depth.
