The Edmonton Oilers would be wise to pursue a trade for Tampa Bay Lightning prospect Isaac Howard. Howard, a 21-year-old left winger, has made it known that he is unlikely to sign with the Lightning, who drafted him 31st overall in 2022. This creates an opportunity for the Oilers to acquire a promising young talent who could inject skill and energy into their top-six forward group.

Howard is coming off a stellar season at Michigan State University, where he scored 26 goals and 26 assists in 37 games. His outstanding performance earned him the Hobey Baker Award as the top player in NCAA hockey. Before transferring to Michigan State, Howard played at the University of Minnesota-Duluth, where he recorded 6 goals and 11 assists in 35 games in 2022-23. In 2023-24 with Michigan State, he tallied 8 goals and 28 assists in 36 games. This offensive explosion suggests that he is ready to make the jump to professional hockey.

According to NHL insider Frank Seravalli, the Oilers have already expressed significant interest in acquiring Howard. In fact, Seravalli reported that the Oilers offered a late first-round pick for Howard's rights, but the Lightning apparently turned it down. While the deal has not yet materialized, the Oilers' willingness to offer a first-round pick demonstrates their strong desire to add Howard to their roster.

Several factors make Howard an attractive target for the Oilers. First and foremost, he is a highly skilled offensive player with the potential to become a top-six forward in the NHL. His offensive capabilities were on full display during his time in the NCAA, particularly this past season. Secondly, Howard is known for his strong work ethic and competitiveness. He is a player who is willing to battle for pucks and go to the dirty areas of the ice. Finally, Howard is still young and has plenty of room to grow and develop. With the right coaching and development, he could become a key contributor to the Oilers' success for many years to come.

From the Lightning's perspective, trading Howard would allow them to acquire assets for a player who is unlikely to sign with their team. If the Lightning are unable to trade Howard by August 15, 2026, he will become an unrestricted free agent, and the Lightning would only receive a late second-round compensatory pick in 2027. Therefore, it would be in their best interest to trade him now while his value is still relatively high.

For the Oilers, acquiring Howard would be a smart move that could pay dividends in the long run. He has the potential to become a key offensive contributor and help the team compete for championships. While the cost of acquiring Howard may be significant, the potential reward is well worth the risk. Given the circumstances, the Oilers should continue to pursue a trade for Isaac Howard. He would be a valuable addition to their roster, and his acquisition could help the team achieve its long-term goals.