Scott Howson's journey in the world of hockey began as a player before transitioning into various executive roles. Born on April 9, 1960, in Toronto, Ontario, Howson pursued his passion for hockey from a young age. He played collegiate hockey at the University of Toronto, where he demonstrated his skills on the ice. His performance caught the attention of the NHL, and he was drafted by the New York Islanders in the 1981 NHL Entry Draft.
Howson's professional playing career was relatively brief. He played a total of 18 games in the NHL with the New York Islanders during the 1984-85 season. Although his time as a player in the NHL was limited, he continued to play in the minor leagues, including stints with the Indianapolis Checkers and the Springfield Indians in the American Hockey League (AHL). His playing career provided him with valuable insights into the game, which he later applied in his executive roles.
After retiring as a player, Howson shifted his focus to hockey management. He began his executive career with the Edmonton Oilers, where he served in various capacities. Initially, he worked as a scout and then moved up the ranks to become the Assistant General Manager. During his tenure with the Oilers, Howson was involved in player development and team operations, contributing to the team's strategies and decisions.
In 2007, Howson took on a new challenge as the General Manager of the Columbus Blue Jackets. His tenure with the Blue Jackets marked a significant phase in his career. As General Manager, Howson was responsible for overseeing the team's roster decisions, trades, and draft picks. He worked to build a competitive team and was instrumental in the development of several players who became key assets for the franchise.
Howson's time with the Blue Jackets saw the team make its first-ever playoff appearance in the 2008-09 season. This achievement was a milestone for the franchise and highlighted Howson's efforts in shaping the team's competitive edge. Despite facing challenges, he remained focused on long-term growth and development for the team.
In 2013, Howson's tenure with the Blue Jackets came to an end, and he returned to the Edmonton Oilers organization. He continued to contribute to the hockey world in various executive roles, including serving as the Senior Vice President of Hockey Operations. His extensive experience in both playing and management provided him with a comprehensive understanding of the sport, which he utilized in his subsequent roles.
Throughout his career, Scott Howson demonstrated a deep understanding of the game, both on and off the ice.
🏒