A source close to the situation indicated that “nearly every team has checked in, except for maybe two or three.” When asked if the Bruins were among the exceptions, he declined to confirm specific names but noted, “they’re teams from the Western Conference.
“For those not up to speed on the Howard situation: he was drafted 31st overall in the first round of the 2022 NHL Entry Draft by the Tampa Bay Lightning. During the 2024–2025 season, he put up an impressive 26 goals and 26 assists in just 37 games with Michigan State University, earning him the Hobey Baker Award as college hockey’s top player.”
Tampa Bay made efforts to sign Howard following the conclusion of his college season, but negotiations stalled without a deal. General Manager Julien BriseBois admitted there was a disconnect, noting that “Howard values the freedom to choose the team that best fits him.”
Tampa Bay is down to two choices: either trade Howard’s rights or make another attempt to sign him before their exclusive window closes on August 15, 2026. If they opt to hold out and still can’t secure a deal, they’ll receive a compensatory second-round pick in 2027—specifically, the 31st selection of that round.
Rival general managers are well aware of the situation—and they know that the longer they wait, the closer Tampa gets to settling for a compensatory pick if Howard remains unsigned. That looming deadline could gradually drive down the trade cost for acquiring his rights.
On the flip side, the Lightning are without first-round picks for the next three drafts, starting with this year, and are eager to recoup one. While a deal before the draft seems unlikely—teams will want assurance that Howard is willing to sign before making any move, meaning Tampa would need to grant them permission to speak with his camp—it’s still a possibility that can’t be ruled out.
This is where the Bruins have assets. With multiple first round picks in 2026 and 2027, they could tempt BriseBois with one of them.
Around the rink
Defenseman Daniil Misyul, who was acquired from the New Jersey Devils in exchange for Marc McLaughlin at the trade deadline, has signed a one-year deal with Lokomotiv of the KHL for next season. The Bruins can retain Misyul’s rights (scheduled to become a restricted free agent July 1) if the tender his qualifying offer by June 30.
Dom - Hockey 