The Tampa Bay Lightning and Edmonton Oilers have completed a significant trade that alters their prospect pools, exchanging top talents on July 9, 2025. In this rare mid-summer swap, the Oilers send Sam O’Reilly, the No. 32 overall pick in the upcoming 2024 NHL Draft, to the Lightning. In return, Tampa Bay acquires Isaac Howard, the No. 31 pick from the 2022 draft and the 2025 Hobey Baker Award winner.
O’Reilly, a 19-year-old center, was Edmonton’s second-ranked prospect according to The Athletic. He had an impressive season with the London Knights in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL), scoring 28 goals and accumulating 71 points in 62 games. After signing a three-year entry-level contract with the Oilers last October, O’Reilly returned to juniors to help his team secure their second consecutive Robertson Cup and a Memorial Cup.
On the other hand, Howard, a 21-year-old left winger, finished his season at Michigan State with 26 goals and 52 points in just 37 games. His accolades this year include winning the Hobey Baker Award, an honor equivalent to the Heisman Trophy in college hockey, and being named both the Big Ten Men’s Ice Hockey Player of the Year and the Big Ten Tournament MVP.
NHL insider Frank Seravalli provided insights into the motivations behind the trade. He indicated that the Oilers believe Howard is ready to transition immediately into the NHL, with expectations that he will sign, leave Michigan State, and be part of Edmonton’s opening night lineup. Seravalli characterized the trade as fascinating, noting that while some scouts view O’Reilly as a stronger long-term prospect, Howard’s readiness for the NHL gives him an edge in the immediate term.
The trade has drawn analysis from industry experts. Corey Pronman, a prominent NHL prospect analyst, graded the deal as a B+ for Edmonton and a B- for Tampa Bay. He noted, “I like Howard a bit more as a prospect. He has notably more offensive potential.” Pronman highlighted that Howard’s desire for immediate NHL play and his public trade request limited Tampa Bay’s leverage in negotiations. Nevertheless, he acknowledged that the Lightning’s ability to secure a solid prospect in a more valuable position is a favorable outcome under the circumstances.
As the NHL offseason progresses, this trade represents a strategic move for both teams. The Lightning aim to bolster their future while the Oilers position themselves for immediate success with a player they believe can make an instant impact. With both O’Reilly and Howard poised to make waves in their respective careers, hockey fans will be closely watching how this trade unfolds in the upcoming season.
