NHL trade grades: Oilers, Lightning pull off top prospects swap
Tampa Bay Lightning get: Center Sam O'Reilly
Isaac Howard was the top player in college hockey this season, winning the Hobey Baker Award. He's a super-skilled offensive player who can make a lot happen inside the offensive zone. He sees the ice well, is a shifty skater and can create offense with good enough pace. He also has a very good shot and can finish chances from midrange. However, Howard isn't the biggest winger. He can be pushed to the outside and doesn't have the super high compete level you would ideally like at his size. He projects as a middle-six scoring winger in the NHL.
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Sam O'Reilly was an important center for OHL London, playing on both special teams. He competes hard, creates a lot of offense at the net-front and has physicality. He's a solid skater who can transition pucks and can skate at the top level. O'Reilly has quality skill and vision, and tries to create offense in a direct, translatable way. I wouldn't call his puck play a true standout part of his game, though. London was a deep offensive team this year, and O'Reilly didn't get the prime power-play minutes. He likely will get that chance next season and will have a better chance to showcase his skill. Currently, he projects as a bottom-six forward.
I like Howard a bit more as a prospect. He has notably more offensive potential. That said, his preference to want NHL games right away, and his trade request being public, didn't give Tampa Bay a ton of leverage, especially given that his profile as a small, scoring winger isn't overly valuable. That the Lightning were able to procure a solid prospect at a more valuable position is decent for them, given the circumstances.
Howard could play for the Oilers in the NHL next season, though, whereas O'Reilly is likely several seasons away.
Edmonton: B+
Tampa Bay: B-
(Photo of Isaac Howard: Michael Miller /)
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