2 Teams Linked As Frontrunners For Islanders Brock Nelson

The Minnesota Wild and Vancouver Canucks have emerged as frontrunners in the pursuit of New York Islanders center Brock Nelson, one of the top names available ahead of the March 7 NHL trade deadline, according to Daily Faceoff's Frank Seravalli. 

Nelson, a pending unrestricted free agent with a $6 million cap hit, has garnered interest despite a dip in production this season, with 10 goals and 21 points in 40 games. 

Bringing solid playoff experience, steady two-way play, and a career-best 54.1% faceoff win rate, Nelson is viewed as a prime target for teams seeking depth and stability down the middle. 

His 16-team no-trade clause could play a big role in determining his next destination.

Been saying it all season. I’m sure there are team’s that would give an arm and a leg for Brock Nelson. Could set Isles up for future. No brainer to trade him. Stock will be at all time high after Four Nations

— Mike Grinnell (@MikeGrinnell_) January 7, 2025

Minnesota’s interest is particularly strong, given Nelson’s ties to the state and connections with Wild general manager Bill Guerin, who recently named him to Team USA’s roster for the upcoming 4 Nations Face-Off. 

Seravalli described Nelson as "the most impactful center available," and the Wild see him as a potential difference-maker as they prepare for a playoff push. 

Currently sitting second in the Central Division, the Wild are well-positioned to acquire Nelson, whose return to his home state could provide a boost to both the team and its fanbase. 

According to Seravalli, Guerin’s relationship with Nelson further strengthens Minnesota’s appeal: "There is solid interest, most notably from his home state of Minnesota, whose GM Bill Guerin selected Nelson for Team USA’s 4 Nations Face-Off entry."

#Isles Brock Nelson is in all likelihood going to be the most valuable asset on the trade market. Even if Lamoriello doesn’t plan to shop him right now, gotta imagine teams will try to pry him away from the Islanders. Gotta keep the phone line open

— Michael Ostrower (@michaelost13) January 7, 2025

Meanwhile, the Canucks are considering Nelson as part of a potential larger shake-up involving stars Elias Pettersson or J.T. Miller. 

Vancouver is reportedly exploring a package that might include Islanders defenseman Noah Dobson, although Dobson’s availability remains uncertain. 

The Canucks’ playoff status complicates their interest, as they are hesitant to commit significant assets without a clearer path to the postseason.

Photo Credit: Wendell Cruz-Imagn Images