NHL Trade Rumors: 2 More Teams Linked To Islanders' Brock Nelson

Friday, January 17, 2025 ,

The Winnipeg Jets and Colorado Avalanche have emerged in pursuit for New York Islanders center Brock Nelson, one of the top rental forwards available ahead of the NHL trade deadline, according to Matt Larkin of Daily Faceoff. 

Nelson, 33, brings a proven scoring touch with three consecutive 30-goal seasons and is highly regarded for his versatility as a two-way center. His ability to win faceoffs at a 54.1% clip, contribute on special teams, and maintain strong 5-on-5 play makes him a prime target for playoff-bound teams seeking middle-six depth. 

Despite a dip in offensive production this season, Nelson’s reputation as a reliable veteran has kept his trade value strong.

For the Avalanche, Nelson could fill a crucial gap in their forward group left by the departures of Nazem Kadri and J.T. Compher in recent seasons. 

With Gabriel Landeskog still on LTIR, Colorado has the cap flexibility to pursue a high-impact rental and is expected to be aggressive during their win-now window. 

“The Avs are all-in during the primes of Nathan MacKinnon, Cale Makar, and Mikko Rantanen,” Larkin noted. However, the team’s limited prospect pool and lack of a 2025 first-round pick could make it difficult to craft a compelling offer for the Islanders.

The Jets, meanwhile, are positioned to offer the assets needed to acquire Nelson, with a full complement of first-round picks and a deep prospect pool that includes Chaz Lucius, whom Larkin described as “a potential reclamation project for the Islanders.” 

Winnipeg’s strong performance this season has motivated GM Kevin Cheveldayoff to make bold moves, following last year’s successful acquisitions of Sean Monahan and Tyler Toffoli. 

Still, Nelson’s 16-team no-trade clause poses a challenge, as Winnipeg’s market reputation could make it a less desirable destination. However, Larkin suggests the Jets’ legitimate Stanley Cup aspirations could persuade Nelson to waive his clause.

Photo Credit: Christopher Creveling-Imagn Images



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