Howard striving to become part of 'winning culture' with Lightning

The Big Ten crown was won by Michigan State, while the U.S. team secured gold in the WJC, with a promising prospect leading the way.

TAMPA — There is little doubt Isaac Howard will one day bring a winning attitude to the Tampa Bay Lightning.

After a successful season, which included winning a Big Ten title at Michigan State and securing a gold medal with the United States in the 2024 IIHF World Junior Championship, the Lightning’s first-round pick (No. 31) in the 2022 NHL Draft is an impressive 20-year-old forward prospect.

After transferring from Minnesota Duluth, Howard, hailing from Hudson, Wisconsin, emerged as the top scorer for Michigan State (25-10-3, 16-6-2 Big Ten) in the World Juniors tournament, netting an impressive seven goals. In his first season with the team, Howard continued to showcase his scoring prowess by contributing 36 points (eight goals, 28 assists) in 36 games.

During Tampa Bay development camp earlier this month, Howard expressed his satisfaction, stating, “My experience has been fantastic. Being a part of the Michigan State program has been incredibly enlightening. The teammates there constantly push you to your limits, helping me discover my true potential. It has undoubtedly enhanced my skills as a player and improved my abilities as a teammate.”

Howard mentioned that his personal success has provided him with a deeper comprehension of the advantages associated with being involved in a victorious team. Drawing parallels, he can easily relate this to the Lightning, who have remarkably reached the Stanley Cup Final three times within the last five seasons and emerged as champions in both 2020 and 2021.

“He said it keeps you hungry,” Howard explained. “When you’re in a winning position, the desire to work even harder becomes stronger,” he continued. “That’s what they emphasize here – the winning culture in Tampa Bay and the dedication it demands to be a part of it.”

According to Stacy Roest, the Lightning’s assistant general manager, having Howard at camp provides an opportunity to assess his growth as a player and allows him to demonstrate any improvements he has made over the past year.

According to Roest, individuals like Isaac, who have previous experience, are familiar with the program. They possess knowledge about our operations, so we won’t overwhelm them with numerous new things. Our main objective is to ensure they stay on the correct path, keep improving, and focus on refining their skills.

Howard’s current plan involves returning to Michigan State, where his goal is to secure another Big Ten championship. Following this achievement, he will face the choice of either remaining in college or pursuing a professional career. Given Tampa Bay’s ongoing efforts to bolster their forward lineup, players such as Howard, Conor Geekie, and Dylan Duke are being regarded as crucial contributors to the team’s future success.

Howard expressed his desire to join the esteemed group of exceptional players who have been a part of this place. The presence of NHL players training here fills him with excitement and anticipation for the future.