Isaac Howard Injury Update: Oilers Forward Out Against Rangers

Isaac Howard was ruled out of Edmonton’s Sunday game against the New York Rangers after a knee-on-knee collision forced him from Saturday’s win over the Islanders. Sportsnet’s Mark Spector reported that the injury appeared less serious than initially feared, but a complete assessment remained outstanding.

Howard needed assistance leaving the ice after the collision with Islanders forward Emil Heineman. Heineman received a five-minute major and a game misconduct. The Oilers did not score on the ensuing power play.

Coach Mike Babcock said Saturday that the initial outlook was favorable and that Edmonton hoped a recovery day would help. That preliminary assessment does not establish a diagnosis or a return date. The confirmed availability decision in Sunday’s report concerned the Rangers game.

The official NHL game log records just one shift and 30 seconds of ice time for Howard against the Islanders. He had no shots or points in that appearance. His previous game, October 28 against Calgary, included 15 shifts, two shots and 10:21 of ice time.

Through Saturday, Howard had one goal and two assists in 13 appearances this season. The goal came on the power play against Detroit on October 26. His two assists came in October games against Vancouver and San Jose. Those totals include the shortened Islanders appearance.

Howard is 22 and plays left wing. His recent usage shows the immediate roster loss is a forward who has generally received limited minutes, rather than a player carrying Edmonton’s largest scoring workload. The injury still removes an available option from the lineup during consecutive road games.

Edmonton’s trip continues Tuesday against New Jersey. Howard’s status for that game was not confirmed in the originating injury report. A further medical assessment or a new team availability update would be needed before identifying when he can return to competition.