Oilers Analyst Shares Thoughts on Ike Howard’s Call-Up Timing Fans Might Not Like It
Ike Howard is doing everything the Edmonton Oilers want from a star player — except getting the chance fans think he has already earned. While Howard keeps shining in the AHL with amazing plays, an Oilers analyst has now set back hope for a quick call-up to the NHL, and fans are not happy about it.
Howard’s recent games in the minors have been more than good — they’ve been outstanding. He is making plays, creating scoring opportunities easily, and working harder than older players every game. Many fans believe he could be the boost Edmonton really needs, especially since the team’s bottom players are being inconsistent. So, when an Oilers analyst said that Howard’s call-up could still be “weeks away,” it felt like a disappointment to fans who watch the same games.
The analyst mentioned that the team is being careful. The issue is not Howard’s talent — it’s about timing, the team setup, and whether bringing him into a high-pressure playoff situation could actually hurt more than help. This explanation hasn’t been received well. Critics say that Edmonton can’t take their time when they have someone who is proven to produce sitting in the AHL.
What makes this situation even more complicated is the message it sends to other young players. If being outstanding in the AHL doesn’t lead you to the NHL quickly, then what does? Some fans think the Oilers are overthinking this straightforward choice, sticking with struggling older players instead of rewarding good performance.
At the same time, Howard keeps delivering, quietly making a case for himself with every game. The longer Edmonton holds off, the louder the complaints become — and the chance grows that this will turn into another “what-if” tale that Oilers fans will remember.
No matter when the call-up happens, one thing is clear: Ike Howard is not just knocking on the NHL door anymore. He’s hitting it hard — and soon the Oilers might have no choice but to let him in.
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