Michigan State hockey fans react to Isaac Howard’s return

In case you haven’t heard the biggest Spartan-related news of the week so far (arguably), Isaac Howard is back. That’s right, Michigan State hockey star and Hobey Baker Award finalist Isaac Howard is planning on returning to East Lansing for his senior year.

Howard’s unexpected return was first teased on Wednesday morning by NHL Insider Elliotte Friedman, then later confirmed by multiple sources.

Check out the initial info from Friedge’s “32 Thoughts” Podcast. The written portion was later expanded by Jeff Middleton.

Some major college hockey news regarding Michigan State’s Isaac Howard and his status with the Tampa Bay Lightning via @FriedgeHNIC.

Howard was selected 31st overall by Tampa in the 2022 NHL draft and has procured 88 points in 73 games with the Spartans. pic.twitter.com/1oqXQru7sF

— Jeff Middleton (@jjmid04) April 9, 2025

Reaction

The news was met by reaction from a lot of Michigan State fans and college hockey analysts alike. Spartan fans are absolutely rejoicing at the fact that they not only get the best goalie in college hockey back in Trey Augustine, but now also get one of the most dominate forwards back in Howard.

Make no mistake about it, Michigan State hockey is loading up after its disappointing end to the season.

Here are some of my favorite reactions to the news (including my own):

An Isaac Howard return makes Munn the hottest ticket in amateur hockey next season.

The Spartans have the chance to be absolutely loaded. #GoGreen https://t.co/OZO1ObOde7

— Chris Norman (@hockeynewman) April 9, 2025

Isaac Howard will indeed be returning to Michigan State for his senior season, as previously reported by others

This development is unexpected, considering that the Hobey Baker finalist has the option to enter free agency on August 15, 2026

A massive boost for MSU as they look…

— Cam Robinson (@Hockey_Robinson) April 9, 2025

Isaac Howard and Trey Augustine both returning to Michigan State next season 🔥

Adam Nightingale has his sights sets on bringing a championship to East Lansing pic.twitter.com/4CyHb8NyBK

— Eric (@DETszn) April 9, 2025

LFG pic.twitter.com/ilSVj6P3eI

— B1G POTY Isaac Howard Enjoyer (@JAkinsBeliever3) April 9, 2025

Isaac Howard transferred to MSU looking for a fresh start. Little did he know the decision would save his life. After being treated for a rare heart defect and emerging as a college hockey star, Howard is returning for his senior season.

For @detroitnews: https://t.co/WF46U4WiET

— Connor Earegood (@ConnorEaregood) April 9, 2025

Some major hockey news here. MSU looks in line to return its Hobey Baker finalist from this season..

Ike is potentially coming back to EL for one more rodeo.#GoGreen https://t.co/G6YQSmqP51

— Spartan Shadows Podcast (@MSUShadowsPod) April 9, 2025

The reaction across the hockey world is surprised, to say the least. After rumors of the Lightning and him at a potential standoff surfaced, people started to think it was potentially possible. However, with the Lightning standing to lose his draft rights if they don’t sign him, most thought that they would work something out. With that not happening, Howard will have a shot to bet on himself and sign as a free agent next season.

In the meantime, MSU will reap the benefits. Welcoming Howard back means it returns one of the best forwards in college hockey. The Spartans will get him back along with goaltending phenom Trey Augustine. MSU will return best goalie in the country and one of the best forwards in hockey. They will be coming back to join a top-notch recruiting class incoming as well as a major portal addition.

Adam Nightingale will have talent by the boatload next season. Excitement is growing exponentially for Michigan State hockey fans.

Go Green and welcome back, Ike.