The NHL trade rumor mill is buzzing with Isaac Howard news after Tampa Bay Lightning GM Julien BriseBois revealed the organization is unlikely to sign the standout college forward. Howard, the 2025 Hobey Baker Award winner, has reportedly been eyeing free agency, and that’s set off a frenzy among NHL teams looking to add elite young talent.
One of those teams? The Pittsburgh Penguins.
Penguins Emerging as Top Contender to Trade for Isaac Howard
According to Pens insider Dan Kingerski, Pittsburgh GM Kyle Dubas has Howard on his radar and could explore a trade before Howard becomes an unrestricted free agent in August 2025. Dubas is no stranger to this type of acquisition. Just last summer, he traded for Rutger McGroarty, who was in a similar situation with the Winnipeg Jets.
At 21, Howard is exactly what the Penguins’ aging core needs—speed, skill, and upside. The former first-round pick was electric this season, finishing his NCAA campaign with 31 goals and 67 points in 40 games. His offensive instincts are elite, and he plays with an edge that makes him more than just a flashy scorer.
Howard’s refusal to sign with Tampa has opened the door for Dubas, who might try to swoop in before the market heats up. However, the cost won’t be cheap. Tampa knows they’re dealing a premium asset and would likely ask for a package similar to what Pittsburgh gave up for McGroarty—possibly more. That deal cost Pittsburgh Brayden Yager, a key piece of their future.
My Take on the Trade Scenario
If the Lightning officially put Isaac Howard on the block, Pittsburgh should be one of the first teams calling. Howard fits the Dubas mold: young, skilled, and undervalued due to his contractual limbo. I believe the Penguins are in a win-now-but-rebuild-soon window, and landing Howard bridges both timelines.
Don’t be surprised if the Penguins offer a high-end prospect or even future picks to seal the deal. If Dubas can pull this off, it’ll be another strong play in retooling the franchise without bottoming out.
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