In a notable move signaling a strategic shift, the Edmonton Oilers have completed a trade, sending their recent 2024 first-round draft pick, Sam O`Reilly, to the Tampa Bay Lightning in exchange for forward Isaac Howard. The transaction, announced Tuesday evening, brings a highly-touted collegiate player with significant accolades into the Oilers organization.
Howard, a 21-year-old left-shot winger standing five-foot-11, was originally selected 31st overall by the Lightning in the 2022 NHL Entry Draft. He spent the 2024-25 season showcasing his offensive prowess at Michigan State, where he recorded an impressive 52 points (26 goals, 26 assists) in 37 games. This stellar performance earned him the prestigious Hobey Baker Award, recognizing him as the top player in NCAA men`s hockey.
Following the trade, the Oilers confirmed that Howard has agreed to a three-year Entry Level Contract set to commence in the 2025-26 season. His arrival introduces a player seemingly closer to NHL readiness, bringing a blend of skill, scoring ability, and notable collegiate success directly into Edmonton`s development pipeline. Howard himself has reportedly expressed considerable excitement about joining the Oilers and the “unreal opportunity” it presents, particularly the chance to be around and learn from elite talents on the roster.
The Player Departing: Sam O`Reilly
Departing the Oilers organization after a brief tenure is 19-year-old Sam O`Reilly. Selected 32nd overall just days prior in the 2024 draft, O`Reilly arrives in Tampa Bay with a strong junior pedigree. Last season with the London Knights of the Ontario Hockey League, the Toronto native tallied 71 points (28 goals) over 62 regular-season games.
O`Reilly`s impact extended into the postseason, where he registered 22 points (7 goals) in 17 playoff games, contributing significantly to the Knights` J. Ross Robertson Cup victory. His strong play continued through the Memorial Cup tournament, adding 5 points (2 goals) in 5 games and playing a key role in London securing their third Memorial Cup championship. Despite his recent success and status as a fresh first-round pick, the Oilers opted to leverage that asset for the more seasoned college standout.
A Strategic Exchange
This trade represents a calculated decision by the Oilers to exchange a promising, but younger, junior player for a slightly older prospect with a proven track record of dominance at the NCAA level and an NHL contract already secured. Acquiring a Hobey Baker winner like Howard, who is eager to join the team and potentially learn from established stars, suggests the Oilers are focused on integrating talent that may be on a faster track to contributing at the professional level.
