When it comes to rookie right wingers, the Oilers crop in 1980-81 ranks with the all-time best for an NHL team. Jari Kurri (75 games, 32-43-75) and Glenn Anderson (58 games, 30-23-53) were instant plug-and-play impact wingers and would go on to Hall of Fame careers.

In a wild trade, the Edmonton Oilers acquire Hobey Baker award winner, Ike Howard, in a deal with the Tampa Bay Lightning for Sam O'Reilly.

The Edmonton Oilers and Tampa Bay Lightning swung a late night deal involving two high-profile prospects. The Oilers acquired the most recent Hobey Baker Award

Gone are Evander Kane, Viktor Arvidsson and Jeff Skinner, three wingers who got time in the top nine and had some success, even if limited. Also out are wingers Corey Perry and Connor Brown, two impactful veterans who played up and down the lineup. John Klingberg, one of the regular eight defencemen, has moved on, too.

Howard, who won the Hobey Baker Award as the top NCAA men's hockey player last season, has a chance to go from the top line at Michigan State University to a top-six role alongside Connor McDavid or Leon Draisaitl with the Oilers. It would be an impressive jump for the 21-year-old forward.

Edmonton Oilers, driven by their championship aspirations and the need to retain Connor McDavid, traded prospect O'Reilly for Isaac Howard. Insiders believe Howard is more NHL-ready, addressing the team's immediate offensive needs.

Kasperi Kapanen, David Tomasek, and Vasily Podkolzin round out the list of forward line projections. These three bring a lot of valuable talents to the table. Kapanen and Podkolzin bring intense forechecking and speed. Tomasek’s great hockey IQ and ability to hang onto pucks can make this line a valuable contributor for the team.

On July 7th, former Oiler Connor Brown posted a heartfelt message thanking Edmonton Oilers fans for their support during his two years playing in Oil Country,