4 Potential Trade Destinations for Islanders' Brock Nelson

The New York Islanders are 26-25-7 on the season, entering Saturday's action seven points out of the second wild-card position in the Eastern Conference. GM Lou Lamoriello will have lots of interest in some of his pending free agents, including top trade target on everyone's board - Brock Nelson.

The 33-year-old Islanders center has recorded 17 goals and 38 points in 58 games this season. He's in the final year of his current contract, making $6 million against the cap. Nelson has a lot of control in the matter, holding a 16-team no-trade clause. Here's a quick rundown of where he could end up:

Winnipeg Jets

The Jets are going all in, Nelson fits exactly what they need, and with cap space, the deal shouldn't be very difficult to finalize. Lamoriello is likely trying to drive up the price as long as possible, so don't expect to see Nelson get moved until mid-day Friday, unless someone blows him out of the water, which the Jets could do.

Toronto Maple Leafs

The Maple Leafs need a center, they have interest in landing an impact forward before the trade deadline, and Nelson fits into what they need. He can move up and down the lineup, and slide over to the wing if needed. Nelson would be a nice number three behind Matthews and Tavares, but the Leafs don't want to move Fraser Minten, Easton Cowan or their 2026 first-rounder for a rental.

Columbus Blue Jackets

The Blue Jackets are a wild-card team to watch ahead of the deadline, as GM Don Waddell is going to reward his group for exceeding expectations. The Blue Jackets have loads of cap space and can easily fit in Nelson on their books, and with two 2025 first-round picks, they'll have to include one to land Nelson before March 7.

Los Angeles Kings

Ideally the Kings land a right-handed shot, but Nelson would be a fantastic get for GM Rob Blake ahead of the trade deadline. The Kings need an offensive boost, and they could be open to making a bigger deal than just landing Nelson. Perhaps Mat Barzal could also be included? With the Kings being open to move Quinton Byfield and Brandt Clarke, these two teams could pull off a massive trade before the deadline.

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