Ike Howard turns heads after assignment to AHL, another Oilers prospect on track for call up
Photo credit: Sergei Belski - Imagn Images
The Edmonton Oilers sent down Ike Howard to the AHL hoping to see him take a step forward with more ice time, and his first game was great sign.
Howard was acquired by the Oilers with hopes he could immediately make the NHL and be an impact player. He's got skill and showed flashes with the Oilers, but mostly was given 4th line minutes and could use more development time. The AHL is the right place.
Edmonton Oilers prospect Ike Howard excels in first AHL game, other prospects impress too
In just the first period of Howard's first game in the AHL, he notched 2 assists and was one of the most noticeable players on the ice. Usually known for his strong shot, Howard's playmaking was on display this time.
In the AHL Howard continue to round out his game and find more ways to contribute to a winning team. Getting more ice time and opportunities in all situations will be key for his development, and he'll be back in the NHL a much better player.
Some fans are still critical that Howard was never given much opportunity in Edmonton. The coach never gave Howard a real shot to prove his talent, but he'll be in a better place with the Condors now.
A number of other Oilers prospects had a standout effort in the last Condors game. Marjala, Samanski, Jarventie, and Hutson are all off to incredible starts, and the addition of Howard will lift them up even more.
Then there's the interesting case of Connor Clattenburg, the Oilers junior tough guy. The 20 year old 5th round draft pick from 2024 is now playing his first full year in the AHL, and is taking the league head-on with fists flying. Just last night he dropped the gloves three times, and threw multiple huge hits.
The kids look all right for the Edmonton Oilers with the minor league squad rolling like this with multiple promising players. Maybe next season, a few of these guys will be cracking the NHL roster.
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