Isaac Howard’s Future Uncertain as Lightning Prospects Grow
When top Lightning prospect Isaac Howard’s season at Michigan State ended prematurely two weeks ago, it seemed only a matter of time before he would turn pro and sign his entry-level contract with Tampa Bay.
But it appears, at least for now, that Howard intends to return to Michigan State for his senior season, according to multiple reports, including Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman and The Detroit News.
Impressive Statistics and Awards
Howard led NCAA Division I with 1.41 points per game and is one of the three finalists for the Hobey Baker Award, given annually to the top player in college hockey. Allowing him to go unsigned puts the Lightning in danger of losing their 2022 first-round pick to the open market by the summer after next.
Contract Negotiations and Future Plans
The news could be posturing by Howard’s camp, which has major leverage in navigating an immediate path to the NHL for the forward. If he plays in an NHL game this season, he would burn the first year of his entry-level deal, which would allow him to garner a more lucrative contract sooner.
The Lightning currently don’t have the cap space to add Howard to their NHL roster, but according to Friedman “word in NCAA circles is the team and Howard weren’t simpatico on where everything stood at this time.”
Potential Deal with the Lightning
The Lightning haven’t said anything publicly about the situation, but that’s not unusual for an organization that’s typically tight-lipped until deals are finalized.
The sides presumably did not not see eye to eye on where Howard should begin his pro career. Fellow Hobey Baker finalist Ryan Leonard of Boston College made the immediate jump to play with the Capitals after signing his entry-level contract.
Conclusion: Bright Future Ahead
From the moment he first drew notice at the 2022 draft by wearing a white suit, blue turtleneck and gold chain, and declaring himself the “best-looking guy” after the Lightning made him the 31st overall pick, Howard continued to raise his stock as an exciting player with a flair for scoring in the biggest moments.
Last year, he led Team USA to a gold medal at the world junior tournament in Sweden, collecting a team-high seven goals and two assists in seven games, including two in the championship game against the Swedes.
In his second season at Michigan State, Howard had 26 goals and 52 points in 37 games, scoring the game-winning goal in double overtime in the Big Ten tournament title game over Ohio State.
FAQs
Q: Will Isaac Howard sign with the Lightning?
A: The decision is currently up in the air as negotiations continue between Howard’s camp and the Lightning.
Q: What are the implications of Howard returning to Michigan State?
A: It could potentially impact the Lightning’s future draft picks and their ability to retain Howard long-term.
