The Edmonton Oilers have officially revealed the jersey number that former Michigan State standout Isaac Howard will wear as he begins his NHL journey with the team.
The Edmonton Oilers have officially taken another step in welcoming their newest young talent, Isaac Howard, to the organization by unveiling the jersey number he’ll be wearing as he embarks on his NHL career. For fans of both the Oilers and Michigan State University, this moment represents more than just a number stitched onto a sweater—it’s a symbolic entry into a storied franchise, a nod to a player’s journey, and a glimpse into what the future might hold. When a player makes the leap from college hockey to the NHL, every detail matters, and the choice of a jersey number often carries emotional and historical significance. For Howard, that number is a part of his identity now as he steps into the spotlight in Edmonton.
Howard, a former Spartan who made a name for himself with dazzling offensive skills and relentless work ethic, has been turning heads ever since his collegiate debut. Drafted originally by the Tampa Bay Lightning in 2022, his journey has taken a few twists before finding a home with the Oilers. His rights were acquired by Edmonton in a quiet but calculated move that sent ripples across both college and NHL circles. What stood out most to scouts and executives was not just Howard’s raw skill set, but also his maturity, focus, and coachability. At Michigan State, he grew into a disciplined two-way player, one who could not only score goals but also kill penalties, lead the forecheck, and make his teammates better.
Now, as he dons his official Oilers sweater, the number on his back becomes the latest in a long line of symbolic chapters in his young career. Edmonton’s decision to give Howard the number 17 holds meaning, especially when considered alongside the legacy of past Oilers who wore it. From longtime fan favorites to dependable depth players, the number 17 has been worn by those who brought energy, consistency, and effort to the ice. For Howard, wearing 17 is about carving out his own space in the team’s rich history while honoring those who came before.
Oilers fans are buzzing about what Howard brings to the team’s dynamic. Known for his elite skating and deceptive shot, he brings a level of creativity that could add serious depth to the forward corps. The Oilers’ management and coaching staff have praised his hockey IQ and willingness to learn. While he still needs to earn his place in the NHL lineup, early indications are that he’s making all the right moves. At training camp, he’s already caught the eye of veteran players and coaches alike with his composure, poise, and effort level.
The jersey number announcement might seem like a small ceremonial step, but it’s an essential part of the identity Howard will carry throughout his time in Edmonton. Fans often attach themselves to players through their numbers, and a standout season could turn that number into one synonymous with highlight-reel goals, gritty performances, and game-winning moments. Jerseys start flying off shelves, kids start wearing it in street hockey games, and the number becomes etched into franchise lore. That’s the dream, and for Isaac Howard, it all starts now.
His college coach at Michigan State spoke highly of Howard’s growth throughout his time there, noting how he became a leader both on and off the ice. As a freshman, he showed flashes of brilliance, but by his sophomore year, he was one of the team’s most reliable performers. His transition from collegiate play to professional hockey was expected to be relatively smooth due to his ability to think the game at a high level. That mental acuity, combined with his on-ice tenacity, makes him an ideal fit for a team looking to bolster its depth as it continues its pursuit of a Stanley Cup.
The Oilers, who have been on the cusp of championship glory in recent years, know the value of injecting youth and speed into their lineup. With stars like Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl anchoring the top lines, there’s an opportunity for someone like Howard to step in and contribute on a third or fourth line—or even higher should he continue to progress rapidly. His ability to play on either wing also gives the coaching staff flexibility when constructing line combinations.
For Howard, the excitement is palpable. He’s expressed gratitude for the opportunity to join such a storied franchise and has embraced the challenges that come with high expectations. Wearing an NHL jersey—especially one as iconic as Edmonton’s blue and orange—is a dream come true for any young hockey player. But wearing it with his own name and number stitched on the back elevates it to another level. It signifies not just arrival, but responsibility. Every time he steps on the ice in that jersey, he represents not only himself but the city, the fans, and the rich legacy of the team.
The journey to this point hasn’t been without obstacles. Like many young players, Howard has faced doubts, competition, and the pressure to perform. But he’s met each challenge with determination and humility. That work ethic was something Oilers general manager Jeff Jackson emphasized when speaking about the young forward. Jackson described Howard as “the type of player who can become a fan favorite quickly—not just because of his skill, but because of the way he carries himself and how much he wants to win.”
Howard’s family has also played a crucial role in his development. Known to be deeply supportive, they’ve been with him through youth tournaments, early morning practices, and draft-day celebrations. Now, they’ll watch as he takes the next step into the NHL spotlight, this time with a clear identifier on his back: number 17. It’s more than a jersey number—it’s a badge of honor, a symbol of the road traveled and the one yet to be explored.
In the coming weeks, Howard will continue participating in offseason workouts, skating sessions, and team-building activities with the Oilers. Preseason games will be his next big test, and how he performs could determine whether he cracks the opening night roster or begins the season in the AHL for further development. Either way, the Oilers have made a clear statement—they believe in Isaac Howard, and they’re giving him the platform to prove he belongs.
Longtime Oilers fans know that development is key to long-term success. Some of the greatest players in franchise history didn’t emerge overnight. They were given time, space, and the right mentorship to thrive. Howard will benefit from being around some of the best players in the world, and his growth will be accelerated by the professionalism and structure within the Oilers organization. Veterans have already taken him under their wing, helping him adjust to the rigors of NHL life, both on and off the ice.
As the season approaches, the excitement surrounding Howard’s debut continues to build. Social media has already seen a spike in posts featuring mockups of his jersey, fan tributes, and predictions for his rookie year. Hockey culture thrives on new blood—players who can energize the roster, bring passion to the game, and remind fans of why they fell in love with the sport in the first place. Howard has the potential to be one of those players.
There’s also something poetic about the intersection of old and new that a jersey number announcement brings. It’s a tradition rooted in the past but brimming with hope for the future. Every Oilers legend once had their first number reveal. Now, it’s Isaac Howard’s turn. He’ll wear number 17, and what he does in that sweater will be watched closely by fans, coaches, and opponents alike. If history is any indication, the number could one day be remembered not just as a marker, but as a milestone—one that signaled the start of something special.
So as Howard continues his transition from Spartan green to Oilers blue and orange, the number on his back becomes the starting point of a new chapter. He’s no longer just a prospect or a college standout—he’s an Edmonton Oiler, with a number to prove it. And if his past is any indication of what’s to come, Oilers fans may soon have a new name and number to cheer for in the stands and wear proudly on their backs.
