Oilers Rookie Ike Howard Adjusts to NHL Pace

Former Hobey Baker winner overcomes early AHL stint to earn call-up to Edmonton's roster.

Apr. 14, 2026 at 2:22am

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An abstract, expressionist painting in bold neon colors, with rapid brushstrokes capturing the dynamic motion and energy of a hockey player on the ice.A young Oilers prospect's journey from college stardom to the NHL grind is reflected in a dynamic, neon-hued painting.Today in Tampa

Ike Howard, the 2025 Hobey Baker Award winner, was traded from the Tampa Bay Lightning to the Edmonton Oilers last July. However, the rookie forward initially spent more time in the AHL than the NHL this season as he adjusted to the faster pace of the professional game. After being called up to the Oilers' roster, Howard is now relishing the opportunity to play alongside his new teammates.

Why it matters

Howard was a highly touted college prospect, winning the Hobey Baker Award as the top NCAA hockey player in 2025. His transition to the NHL has been closely watched, as the Oilers look to develop their young talent and return to the playoffs.

The details

When Howard was traded to the Oilers, he likely didn't expect to spend more time in the AHL than the NHL during his rookie season. However, the jump from college to the professional ranks proved challenging, as Howard had to adjust to the faster pace and physicality of the NHL game. After earning a call-up to the Oilers' roster, Howard is now excited to contribute at the highest level and play alongside his new teammates.

  • Ike Howard was traded from the Tampa Bay Lightning to the Edmonton Oilers last July.
  • Howard spent the early part of the 2026-27 season playing more games in the AHL than the NHL.

The players

Ike Howard

A 2025 Hobey Baker Award winner who was traded from the Tampa Bay Lightning to the Edmonton Oilers last July, and is now adjusting to the NHL pace after initially spending more time in the AHL.

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What they’re saying

“I know all the guys in the room so makes it pretty easy to come back. Anytime you get a chance to be back, I'm just excited to play.”

— Ike Howard

The takeaway

Howard's early AHL stint highlights the challenges young prospects face when transitioning from the college game to the NHL. However, his excitement to contribute at the highest level and play alongside his new Oilers teammates suggests he is poised to make an impact as the season progresses.