The Edmonton Oilers and Tampa Bay Lightning have made a significant trade involving top prospects, shaking up their future rosters. The Oilers are sending Sam O'Reilly, the 32nd overall pick in 2024, to the Lightning for Isaac Howard, the 31st overall pick in 2022 and the Hobey Baker Award winner for 2025. O'Reilly, a 19-year-old center, had an impressive season in the OHL with 28 goals and 71 points, while Howard, a 21-year-old left winger, had a solid college career with 26 goals in 37 games this past season at Michigan State.

NHL insiders are split on the value of the trade. Some believe O'Reilly has more long-term potential, while others assert that Howard is ready to make an immediate impact in the NHL. With Howard expected to join the Oilers for the upcoming season, this trade could significantly influence both teams’ playoff aspirations.