Michigan State's Isaac Howard Wins USA Hockey College Player of Year

Isaac Howard, a senior forward for Michigan State, has been named USA Hockey's Jim Johannson College Player of the Year, marking a significant recognition following his receipt of the prestigious Hobey Baker Award as the top player in men's college hockey. Howard led the nation in points per game and was instrumental in leading Michigan State to consecutive Big Ten regular-season and tournament championships. He also earned several honors including Big Ten Player of the Year, Big Ten Tournament Most Outstanding Player, and First Team All-Big Ten, while contributing to Team USA’s gold medal win at the 2025 IIHF Men’s World Championships—the first since 1933. Despite his NHL rights being held by Tampa Bay, Howard has decided to return to Michigan State for another season, aiming to win a national championship. This award makes Howard the fourth Michigan State player to receive the Jim Johannson honor, joining notable predecessors such as Ryan Miller and Jeff Lerg. The award, renamed in 2019 to honor former USA Hockey executive Jim Johannson, celebrates the top American-born NCAA Division I men's hockey player annually.