Isaac Howard targets NHL breakthrough as Islanders pursue deal (Image Source: Getty Images) The New York Islanders have rapidly reversed their future. One who was looking at having the worst crop of young players in the NHL, they’ve now added Calum Ritchie and have the first overall pick in the 2025 NHL Draft. And it’s possible they are not yet finished. If they can re-sign top college player Isaac Howard, their pool of prospects is on track to be one of the strongest in the league to start next season.
Isaac Howard opting for free agency over lightening contract
Isaac Howard, a 21-year-old forward, was selected by the Tampa Bay Lightning in the first round in 2022. But last week, Tampa’s general manager Julien BriseBois made one thing certain Issac Howard won’t be signing with them. The young player desires to make his own decision. BriseBois stated that Issacc Howard was frank about seeking the team that is best suited for him.Issac Howard is no ordinary unsigned prospect. He received the Hobey Baker Award, which is awarded to the top player in American college hockey. He was a big-time star at Michigan State, recording 52 points in 37 games. That included 26 goals and 26 assists, fifty-most in the country!Now that he’s open to choosing where he goes, all NHL teams will be interested. But the Islanders are special in that they have a shortcut to the NHL. With a younger roster and more vacancies available, Howard might see the big club sooner in New York than elsewhere.
Calum Ritchie signs up with an Increasing Number of Young Talent
The Islanders have been productive in enhancing their future. They picked up Calum Ritchie in their last move and now possess the No. 1 draft pick, allowing them the opportunity to pick up a high-end young star. Cole Eiserman is also part of the conversation as one of their top prospects. If they acquire Howard, the Isles will have four prospects in the top 50 of the NHL.Issac Howard would be a second-round 2027 draft pick, which the team would send to Tampa Bay. That is a small price for a player who is likely to make an NHL impact soon.Islanders fans can get excited. The team is not merely adding names, it’s adding talent with potential. And if they can get Issac Howard, their rebuild might be progressing faster than expected.Also Read: Avalanche Secure Brock Nelson And William Dufour In Blockbuster Trade; Kylington Heads To Ducks