HOWARD HEADS TO THE OIL FOR O'REILLY
The Edmonton Oilers acquired winger Isaac Howard from the Tampa Bay Lightning for center Sam O'Reilly.
What does it give the Edmonton Oilers
In Howard, the Oilers acquire a scoring winger who is closer to making an NHL impact than the player traded away (O'Reilly). Since Edmonton is in win-now mode, Howard will probably be given every opportunity to become a top-six winger in '25-26. He may be able to help right away, though his defensive game needs some work.
What does it give the Tampa Bay Lightning
For the Lightning, this trade can only be viewed as a win. After all, Howard and Tampa Bay management were at odds since late last season. Since Howard had no intention of signing with the Bolts, getting O'Reilly is a very good end result here. The latter is a two-way center who plays with the powerhouse London Knights (OHL). He is likely one year away.
Fantasy impact
Howard's fantasy stock has obviously risen substantially after this trade. He has top-six winger upside but will he produce right away? Draft him late in non-keeper formats and relatively early otherwise. As for O'Reilly, he is a decent late-round draft option in keeper leagues only this year.
