The Tampa Bay Lightning find themselves in a perplexing situation with their 2022 first-round draft pick, Isaac Howard. Selected 31st overall, the highly touted left winger from Michigan State University has become a source of concern for the Lightning organization. Despite Howard's undeniable talent and potential, a disconnect has emerged between the player and the team, leaving the Lightning struggling to find a resolution.

Howard's journey to this point has been impressive. Before being drafted by the Lightning, he excelled in the junior leagues, earning USHL Rookie of the Year honors. His exceptional performance continued at Michigan State, where he led all NCAA players in scoring this season with 52 points and was tied for third in goals with 26. Howard's outstanding play led to him winning the Hobey Baker Award, given to the top player in American college hockey. He was also named Big Ten Player of the Year. Furthermore, Howard has represented the United States on the international stage, winning gold medals at the IIHF U20 World Junior Tournament in 2024 and the U18 World Junior Championships in 2021. He also made his senior national team debut for the United States at the 2025 IIHF World Championship, helping Team USA win their first gold medal since 1933.

However, despite these achievements, Howard has declined to sign with the Lightning. He has decided to return to Michigan State for his senior season, a move that has complicated his future with the team. According to the NHL and NHLPA Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), the Lightning hold Howard's rights for four seasons after his draft year. By choosing to play his senior season, Howard can become an unrestricted free agent on August 15, 2026.

Tampa Bay Lightning General Manager Julien BriseBois has acknowledged the unlikelihood of signing Howard. This situation has led to speculation that the Lightning might consider trading Howard's rights rather than risk losing him to free agency. Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet reported that the Lightning and Howard "didn't see eye to eye" regarding their respective paths forward.

Several NHL teams are reportedly interested in acquiring Howard, including the New York Islanders. The Islanders, in particular, are seen as an attractive destination for Howard, as they could offer him a quicker path to the NHL. Some reports suggest that the Islanders might be willing to offer a second-round pick in the 2027 NHL Draft to acquire Howard's rights.

The Lightning's dilemma is further compounded by their history of trading draft picks to maintain their Stanley Cup contention window. Howard is the only first-round pick the Lightning have drafted in the past five years. Losing him would further deplete their prospect pool and potentially impact their long-term competitiveness.

Ultimately, the Lightning must decide whether to trade Howard's rights or attempt to persuade him to sign with the team before he becomes a free agent in 2026. The situation highlights the complexities of managing young talent in the NHL and the challenges teams face when their vision for a player's development does not align with the player's own aspirations.