Ike Howard Sets Historic Scoring Pace for AHL’s Edmonton Oilers
The Edmonton Oilers’ rookie winger, Ike Howard, is making waves in the AHL with historic scoring statistics. At just 21 years old, he has achieved remarkable offensive totals while playing for the Bakersfield Condors. Howard’s performance is drawing comparisons to some of the best players in the Oilers’ minor league history.
Ike Howard’s Scoring Accomplishments
As of the Christmas break, Howard has netted nine goals in just 14 games, averaging 0.64 goals per game. This record places him among the top young scorers in the franchise’s history.
- Goals Scored: 9
- Games Played: 14
- Goals Per Game: 0.64
- Age: 21
The last player to achieve similar success at such a young age was Miro Satan, who scored 24 goals in 25 games during the 1994-95 season before moving to the NHL. Other notable players from that era include Steven Rice, Dan Currie, and Ralph Intranuovo, who showcased high goal-scoring abilities.
Comparison with Other Oilers Farmhands
When reviewing the performance of Oilers forwards in their entry-level deals since 2000, Howard stands out:
| Player | Age | Year | Goals per Game |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ike Howard | 21 | 2025-26 | 0.64 |
| Dylan Holloway | 21 | 2023-24 | 0.56 |
| Raphael Lavoie | 22 | 2023-24 | 0.42 |
Howard joins elite company, alongside Dylan Holloway, as one of only two forwards to average more than 0.5 goals per game in the AHL over the past 25 years.
Playmaking and Two-Way Progress
In addition to his scoring prowess, Howard’s playmaking abilities are also noteworthy. He ranks highly in assists per game among Oilers farmhands, showcasing his versatility:
| Player | Age | Year | Assists per Game |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cooper Marody | 21 | 2018-19 | 0.78 |
| Ike Howard | 21 | 2025-26 | 0.71 |
While Howard’s scoring metrics shine, his even-strength goal share is particularly impressive. Tracking by Eric Rodgers reveals Howard’s extraordinary impact on the ice during even strength:
- Even-Strength Goal Percentage: 76%
Impact on the Condors
The Condors have found success with a significant line that includes Howard, centre Josh Samanski, and Quinn Hutson. The trio has excelled since being paired together earlier this season. Howard’s ability to generate offense has been crucial to the team’s performance.
Despite his impressive statistics and performances, Howard is likely to remain in the AHL for the foreseeable future. With several players returning from injury in Edmonton, there is no immediate recall on the horizon.
Future Outlook for Ike Howard
As Howard continues to develop, he is learning crucial lessons for transitioning to the NHL. His current trajectory suggests that he will not only reach the NHL but also have a significant impact once he does. The development path he is on indicates a bright future for this young talent, as he joins an elite group of offensive players in Bakersfield.
