Michigan State’s Isaac Howard Claims 2025 Hobey Baker Memorial Award as College Hockey’s Top Player

ST. LOUIS — Michigan State junior forward Isaac Howard etched his name into college hockey history Friday night, becoming the third Spartan ever to win the Hobey Baker Memorial Award as the NCAA’s most outstanding men’s hockey player. The 21-year-old from Hudson, Wisconsin, edged out Denver defenseman Zeev Buium and Boston College forward Ryan Leonard, now with the Washington Capitals, to claim the sport’s highest individual honor.

Historic Achievement for Howard and MSU Howard’s win marks Michigan State’s first Hobey Baker recipient since legendary goaltender Ryan Miller in 2001 and only the third in program history, joining Miller and 1990 winner Kip Miller. Fittingly, Howard’s 52-point campaign (26 goals, 26 assists in 37 games) propelled the Spartans to Big Ten regular-season and tournament titles while solidifying his reputation as one of college hockey’s most dynamic scorers.

“It’s surreal,” Howard said after receiving the award at St. Louis’ Stifel Theatre during the Frozen Four festivities. “This isn’t just about me—it’s about our team culture and the way Michigan State hockey has risen back to national prominence.”

Dominant Season and NHL Pedigree The Tampa Bay Lightning’s 2022 first-round pick (31st overall) led the nation in points per game (1.42) while ranking third in goals (26) and fifth in total points. His 33 conference points secured the Big Ten scoring title, complemented by conference Player of the Year and First Team All-American honors.

Howard’s transfer from Minnesota-Duluth in 2022 proved transformative. Reuniting with former U.S. National Team Development Program coach Adam Nightingale, he became the offensive engine for a resurgent Spartans program, tallying 88 points across two seasons.

Legacy and Next Steps The 5’11”, 190-pound winger now joins elite company. Past Hobey Baker winners include NHL stars like Paul Kariya, Chris Drury, and current Hockey Hall of Famer Brendan Morrison. While fellow finalist Leonard has already debuted with the Capitals, Howard remains eligible to return for his senior season at MSU in 2025-26 before likely joining the Lightning organization.

Friday’s ceremony capped a banner year for Howard, who previously starred at the 2024 World Junior Championships, leading Team USA with seven goals—including two in the gold-medal game. For Michigan State, the award reinforces the program’s resurgence under Nightingale, who has guided the Spartans from Big Ten cellar-dwellers to national contenders in three seasons.

Selection Process and Criteria The Hobey Baker Award prioritizes on-ice excellence, academic achievement, and character. Howard’s selection by a 29-member committee—comprising media, coaches, and NHL scouts—reflects his dual impact as a prolific scorer and team leader.

As the Frozen Four championship between Western Michigan and Boston University loomed, Howard’s triumph served as a centerpiece moment for a sport celebrating both its historic roots and bright future. For Michigan State fans, it marked the culmination of a 24-year wait—and the arrival of a new hockey icon in East Lansing.

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This story synthesizes verified details from NCAA announcements, Michigan State Athletics releases, and national sports media reports.