NHL Trade Rumors: Brock Nelson Linked To Maple Leafs

Thursday, January 02, 2025 ,

Steve Simmons of The Toronto Sun believes Brock Nelson would be a perfect addition to the Toronto Maple Leafs as they prepare for a playoff run. 

Standing 6-foot-4 with "mammoth hands" and 12 NHL seasons under his belt, Nelson brings a mix of size, skill, and experience that Simmons feels the Leafs desperately need. 

As a capable playoff performer with 27 goals in 78 postseason games, the 33-year-old center could provide the depth, physicality, and versatility Toronto has often lacked in deeper postseason runs. 

Simmons calls Nelson “the perfect addition to bolster Toronto’s depth down the middle” behind Auston Matthews and John Tavares.

Nelson, who carries a $6 million cap hit and is eligible for unrestricted free agency this summer, may become available if the struggling Islanders decide to shift focus. 

Acquiring him, however, will come at a cost. League insiders suggest the price could involve a first-round pick and additional assets, potentially a young player like Nick Robertson or a prospect such as Dennis Hildeby. 

While Simmons acknowledges more affordable options like Yanni Gourde or Scott Laughton exist, he believes Nelson’s unique combination of postseason pedigree and two-way dominance makes him the most enticing target.

For Toronto, Nelson’s ability to slot in as a reliable third-line center would offer much-needed stability and playoff reliability. 

Centering a line with players like Max Domi or Bobby McMann, Nelson could provide the kind of depth and edge the Leafs have lacked in past postseason exits. 

As Simmons puts it, “The Maple Leafs need what Nelson is. Or certainly someone like him,” and he believes Toronto should make every effort to land the Islanders veteran if he becomes available.

Photo Credit: Thomas Salus-Imagn Images



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