Michigan State hockey forward Isaac Howard will start his pro hockey career rather than return to the Spartans. Howard signed a three-year entry-level contract with the Edmonton Oilers on Tuesday, July 8,

The deal severs ties with Howard, whose relationship with the Lightning soured this summer when he went unsigned following a stellar season at Michigan State in which he led Division I hockey in points per game and won the Hobey Baker Award as the top player in college hockey.

After a Hobey Baker-winning season, two consecutive NCAA tournament appearances, numerous game-winning goals and two memorable years with the Michigan State Spartans, junior forward Isaac Howard has signed his entry-level contract with the Edmonton Oilers.