Lightning general manager Julien BriseBois confirmed at the end of the 2024-25 season that former first-round pick, Isaac Howard is unlikely to sign with the organization. Following the NHL Draft on Saturday, BriseBois confirmed trade talks are still ongoing, but they’ve yet to reach a deal that could work for both sides.

“It's tricky because the teams that are willing to offer me something, that I think would be worthwhile for our organization, that actually makes us better and kind of fit with the plan we have for our organization.. they haven't been able to agree to a contract with Isaac,” said BriseBois. “The teams that he feels he can get a deal done with, have not been able to get a deal done with me.”

The Lightning were in contact with Howard’s agent as recent as Friday before the draft began. While there was hope heading into the weekend that the Lightning could find an opportunity to trade Howard’s rights, nothing ultimately developed.

Under the NHL and NHLPA CBA, teams hold the rights to drafted NCAA prospects for four seasons. That means if the Lightning are not able to find a trade partner by Aug. 15, 2026, Howard will become an unrestricted free agent. If he does become an unrestricted free agent, the Bolts will only receive a second-round compensation pick in 2027.

Since drafting Howard in the first round in 2022, the Lightning have invested in his development, as they do with all their prospects. Ideally, they’re hoping for a return greater than just a second-round pick.

“I don't know how long this is going to take. We're perfectly comfortable waiting until the end,” said BriseBois.

“We know worst case, we're getting a second round pick out of this. If I can do better, that would be optimal for me. It would be way better for Isaac Howard because he should turn pro. That's in his best interest for his career's development. We are working with them to try to get that done but, as of now, we have not been able to.”

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