Hobey Baker Winner Isaac Howard Returns to MSU

Isaac Howard, a junior forward for Michigan State, has been awarded the prestigious Hobey Baker Award, recognizing him as the top player in collegiate hockey for the 2025 season. Despite his success and being a first-round draft pick by the Tampa Bay Lightning in 2022, Howard plans to return to Michigan State for his senior year, as contract negotiations with the Lightning have stalled. Howard's impressive season included leading the nation in points per game with 52 points across 37 games. He also contributed to the United States' gold medal victory at the 2024 IIHF World Junior Championships. If Howard does not reach an agreement with the Lightning, he will become an unrestricted free agent after the 2025-26 collegiate season. His return to college hockey is also motivated by unfinished business after the Spartans were eliminated from the NCAA tournament.