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Hobey Baker Winner Reveals Reason He Signed With Oilers Immediately After Blockbuster Trade

Originally posted on Hockey Latest | By Daniel Lucente | Last updated Jul 9, 2025 2:59 PM ET

The Oilers acquired Hobey Baker winner Isaac Howard in a blockbuster trade last night, and he revealed the Oilers' game fits perfectly with his style, so he signed.

Edmonton traded for one of college hockey's all-time biggest stars when they acquired Hobey Baker Award winner Isaac Howard in a trade that cost them prospect Sam O'Reilly in return.

Isaac Howard, 21, concluded a stellar campaign at Michigan State, scoring 52 points (26 goals, 26 assists) in 37 games. Iasaac Howard led the Spartans to a historic Big Ten Double, as he was a regular-season champion and tournament champion as well.

It didn't take long for the Oilers to sign him to a three-year entry-level deal. His style complemented Edmonton's, Howard explained, one of several reasons why he signed right away.

'That's why I was so excited about this fit It's such a high-paced, skilled, fast, work-ethic first team. I think that's exactly my game.'
- Isaac Howard

Although one can hope that he's maneuvering on Connor McDavid's or Leon Draisaitl's wing, fans should bring their hopes down to earth, well, at least until further notice.

Howard was a first-round draft selection in 2022

Despite his first-round selection, 31st overall, of the 2022 draft, he hasn't gotten time in a pro camp or NHL game, but believes that he can push his way into Edmonton's top six.

They're wagering on a sooner rather than later timeline for Howard to start contributing, perhaps even if that's on O'Reilly's expense, who was projected as a future third-line center.

When Edmonton signed Trent Frederic to a long-term eight-year deal over this off-season, that likely signalled the end for O'Reilly.

The timing when Howard's NHL debut will occur will have to wait, but the Oilers feel that he's just about ready to make that leap, and possibly holds the key to sustaining a Stanley Cup bid.

This article first appeared on Hockey Latest and was syndicated with permission.

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