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Isaac Howard, USNTDP (Jenae Anderson / The Hockey Writers)

5 Potential Trade Destinations for Lightning Prospect Isaac Howard

Originally posted on The Hockey Writers
By Jesse Courville-Lynch | Last updated Apr 16, 2025 8:45 AM ET

The Tampa Bay Lightning will soon be focused on winning another Stanley Cup as the postseason inches closer, but something has recently begun to follow them around, and they will have to acknowledge it, and that’s the status of top prospect Isaac Howard, who chose not to sign an entry-level contract and instead, has chosen to return to Michigan State for his senior season. It’s not uncommon for a prospect to return and finish out his entire eligibility rather than turn pro, but Howard is a first-round draft pick, and it’s quite rare that a prospect of that caliber doesn’t earn a deal.

There are some indications that Howard could become a trade piece closer to the 2025 NHL Entry Draft if he has no intention of signing with the Lightning, and he will be a well sought-after prospect should he become available. With that in mind, here are some potential trade destinations for Howard.

San Jose Sharks

The first team that could make sense for Howard is the San Jose Sharks, who are in the middle of a long rebuild and would benefit from having a high-level prospect join their team as they strengthen their young core even more. Howard would join the Sharks’ lineup almost immediately and has the potential to become an elite offensive producer right away. The Sharks shouldn’t have an issue swapping one of their prospects and a draft pick to bring in a player like Howard, and I wouldn’t be surprised if they took a swing.

Philadelphia Flyers

The Philadelphia Flyers had to deal with their own drama when Cutter Gauthier refused to sign with them and ultimately forced their hand into trading him. They may have a chance to reverse the roles and bring in a new prospect that could turn into a star at the NHL level once he’s finished developing. He would be joining a team that has a spot for him on their NHL roster right now, which could be helpful in terms of negotiating his entry-level deal.

Seeing Howard alongside Matvei Michkov could be an electric sight to see for fans around the league. The Flyers might struggle for a little while longer as they try to fight their way back into contention, but having two young stars to keep their fans entertained might be a smart move.

Boston Bruins

The third team that could make sense for Howard is the Boston Bruins, who are headed towards a retool after a rough 2023-24 campaign saw them miss the postseason. If they are looking to begin focusing on their future, while staying competitive, Howard could be the guy that helps them do both.

Howard’s offensive strength could make the Bruins competitive now while giving them a strong prospect to move into the future with. The Bruins are also in a position where they may be looking to spend this offseason in hopes of getting back to the playoffs, so giving a guy like Howard some veteran teammates to play with while he develops could help him become a superstar down the line.

Chicago Blackhawks

When considering rebuilding teams that could benefit from adding young potential stars, the Chicago Blackhawks always come to mind. They seem willing to spend money and future assets to try and surround superstar Connor Bedard with players who can help elevate him and bring them closer to a playoff spot, and Howard might be a guy that helps bring them closer to their goal. With one of the brightest futures in the NHL, the Blackhawks could be an enticing location for Howard.

Edmonton Oilers

The last team that could make sense for Howard is the Edmonton Oilers, who will soon shift their focus to winning their first Stanley Cup since 1990, but could look to make some additions in the offseason if they don’t make a deep playoff run this time around. They have some assets available to make an enticing offer, and Howard could be interested in the opportunity of playing alongside Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl.

Howard, nor the Lightning, have stated anything official about there being any possibility of a trade. However, it seems like the two sides my not be able to come to an agreement, and a fresh start might be the only solution. If Howard does become available, these five teams make sense, but most teams in the NHL would have to take a look and see what the asking price is. Howard’s potential is through the roof, and he would be one of the most sought after assets in the summer.

As the 2024-25 season comes to a close, be sure to continue following The Hockey Writers as your source for news from around the NHL and the hockey world.