Oilers acquire Hobey Baker winner Isaac Howard from Lightning in exchange for Sam O’Reilly (Credit: AP Photo/Steve Marcus) The Edmonton Oilers pulled off a headline-making trade Tuesday night, sending 2024 first-round pick Sam O’Reilly to the Tampa Bay Lightning in exchange for 2025 Hobey Baker Award winner Isaac Howard. Howard, on the other hand, declined to sign with the Lightning despite a stellar college season that saw him post 52 points in 37 games with Michigan State, as he was widely considered one of the most NHL-ready players coming out of the NCAA. The Oilers, clearly interested in adding him to their main roster, wasted no time signing him after finalizing the trade.
Isaac Howard finally lands in Edmonton after previous draft night deal fell through
The trade between Edmonton and Tampa Bay marks the culmination of negotiations that reportedly began during the 2024 NHL Draft. According to NHL insider Frank Seravalli, the Oilers had previously discussed a deal for Howard’s rights using a late first-round pick. While talks collapsed at the time, both teams circled back and found common ground this week.While Tampa Bay loses a high-upside forward, acquiring a younger top-tier prospect in O’Reilly could be viewed as a strategic reset. With O’Reilly’s strong two-way game and winning pedigree, the Lightning may have picked up a long-term asset more aligned with their development timeline.
Mixed reaction from Oilers fans as prized prospect Sam O’Reilly is traded to Lightning
The trade sparked immediate and mixed reactions online. Many Oilers fans expressed surprise and even frustration over losing Sam O’Reilly. A player seen as a future cornerstone; O’Reilly’s growth over the past year had fueled optimism. That too about his role in the next phase of Edmonton’s roster evolution.As the dust settles, this unexpected move reshapes the futures of both franchises, whether it becomes a win-win or a lopsided gamble. This will be judged once Howard hits the ice in Oilers colors and O’Reilly begins his journey with the Lightning.Also Read: Former NHL enforcer Nick Tarnasky destroys drunk man in wild viral golf course brawl