It's easy to read too much into a photo. That said, it's hard not to get excited about what could be coming up for Isaac (Ike) Howard and Colton Dach, who were both front and center in the photos of the Oilers' summer party hosted by Lauren and Connor McDavid. 

The party included McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, Evan Bouchard, Dach, Matt Savoie, Howard, Jason Dickinson, and Ryan Shea, along with the significant others of several players. 

What might be most fascinating for Oilers fans is how Howard and Dach are right there, potentially suggesting a bigger role on the team. Some have wondered whether Howard was specifically invited because the Oilers want him around next season and are potentially taking him under their wing to ensure he's a big part of the group. 

Again, this is all speculation and likely reading way too much into one event. Still, it's a good sign that guys like Dach and Howard were included in the team get-together. 

It was also nice to see Ryan Shea involved, given that he's basically the newest Oiler.  At the very least, it shows that the leadership group is working on its off-ice chemistry and team building. 

What do you think? Is this an overreach to suggest that Howard and Dach (both second-year Oilers) being there is a sign they're going to have bigger roles in 2026-27? 

To be fair, attendance could be been based solely upon availability and we wouldn't read anything into those that weren't there. 

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