Isaac Howard Got a Goal, But Does He Have an Oilers' Future?

The Edmonton Oilers need contributions beyond their biggest names, and Isaac Howard gave them a small reason to be encouraged Monday night. His power-play goal in a 4-3 shootout loss to the Detroit Red Wings was his first of the season, and while one goal doesn't solve everything, it gives a young player a starting point as he tries to find his place.

Howard is 22, and his first 11 games have been a difficult introduction to life in Edmonton. He's collected two assists, registered 10 shots on goal, and sits at an even plus-minus. Those numbers aren't disastrous, but they don't tell the whole story. He's averaging just 9:31 of ice time per game, and limited opportunities can make it difficult for a young forward to build confidence and show what he can do.

Howard's Goal Could Matter More Than the Score.

It’s encouraging to see Howard find the net on the power play. The Oilers' second unit hasn't made a consistent impact, so getting a contribution from that group is useful in its own right. It also gives Howard something tangible to build on.

Edmonton doesn't need its young players to become stars. But they do need to find out which players can help beyond the top of the lineup. With so much attention naturally directed toward Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, secondary scoring and dependable depth can sometimes become the difference between a good team and one that can survive a difficult stretch.

Howard's challenge is to turn an occasional opportunity into a reason the coaching staff gives him another one. A power-play goal won't guarantee more ice time, but it gives him a positive moment to carry into the next game.

Is Bakersfield the Answer for Howard?

The Oilers also face a practical question. If Howard continues to see limited minutes on the fourth line, would he be better served getting regular work with the Bakersfield Condors in the AHL?

That wouldn't necessarily be a setback. At 22, a young forward can benefit from playing more often, handling the puck more frequently, and taking on responsibilities that might not be available in the NHL right now. Development isn't always linear, and time in the AHL doesn't mean a player has failed.

Still, Edmonton shouldn't make that decision simply because Howard's early statistics are modest. The club needs to consider what he's learning, how he's responding to his opportunities, and whether his game is progressing.

What Comes Next for Howard?

For now, the power-play goal is a small but welcome step. Howard has more to prove, and the Oilers have more to learn about him. The key is finding the right environment for that next step.

Sometimes, a young player's season doesn't turn on one goal. But that goal can be the start of a little more confidence—and perhaps a bigger opportunity.