Lansing Sun

Michigan State University's junior hockey player, Isaac Howard, has been recognized as the Big Ten First Star of the Week. The announcement was made by the Conference office on Tuesday, December 17.

Howard's performance included scoring two goals and providing an assist during Michigan State's tie and subsequent victory against Minnesota, which was ranked number one at the time. In Friday's game, he assisted Karsen Dorwart in a 3-3 tie with the Gophers. On Saturday, Howard scored twice; his first goal tied the game at 1-1 with a power play shot from the right circle. His second goal initiated a comeback for Michigan State after they were trailing 3-1. This led to three goals in three minutes, securing a 5-3 win in the series finale.

This marks Howard's second two-goal game this season and of his career. He currently leads his team with nine goals, surpassing last year's total of eight as a sophomore. With a scoring line of 9-11-20, Howard ranks fourth in the Big Ten for goals per game (0.56) and eighth for assists per game (0.67). Nationally, he is eighth in points per game (1.25), sharing or leading these categories within his team.

Halfway through his third collegiate season, Howard has accumulated 73 career points from 23 goals and 50 assists over 87 games.

The Spartans have reclaimed their position as number one in both national polls as of Monday, December 16. They will next compete at the Great Lakes Invitational in Grand Rapids on December 29-30.