The Oilers faithful had high expectations for Howard entering his first NHL season, but has had trouble adjusting from the collegiate level. The 21-year-old has three points (2G / 1A) in 17 games this season and will hope to rediscover his scoring touch in the AHL with the Bakersfield Condors (AHL).

David Tomasek will return to the Oilers' lineup on Thursday against the Columbus Blue Jackets, sending Howard to the press box as a healthy scratch. The 21-year-old Howard has played 17 of 18 games for the Oilers in his rookie season and has scored three points (2G / 1A) while averaging 9:30 time-on-ice.

Howard has been held pointless in his first four NHL games and has seen his ice time decrease in the last two games. He'll be replaced by Curtis Lazar, who will be making his Oilers debut on Saturday.

Minutes after being acquired by Edmonton in a trade with Tampa Bay for Sam O'Reilly, Isaac Howard has signed a three-year, entry-level contract with the Oilers. The 21-year-old forward was the 2025 Hobey Baker Award winner after putting up 26 goals and 52 points in 37 games with Michigan State University (NCAA). He is expected to be in Edmonton's opening night lineup.

Minutes after being acquired by Edmonton in a trade with Tampa Bay for Sam O'Reilly, Isaac Howard has signed a three-year, entry-level contract with the Oilers. The 21-year-old forward was the 2025 Hobey Baker Award winner after putting up 26 goals and 52 points in 37 games with Michigan State University (NCAA). He is expected to be in Edmonton's opening night lineup.