This piece will be another in my series of player profiles, where I’ll give some thoughts on the performance of a member of the New York Islanders this season. This article will focus on Brock Nelson.
I have to say, I was skeptical about Nelson’s ability to replicate his 2018-19 season, where he scored 25 goals and 53 points. Well, I was very wrong.
This was certainly Nelson’s best year with the Islanders so far. He went from a solid third-line center who was really plugging a gap on the second line, to a legitimate top-six center with no room for debate.
He was on pace for 31 goals and 65 points (per 82 games) by the time the season was put on pause. His shooting percentage was slightly higher this year but nothing drastic enough to suggest he’ll see a drop in production next season and he was also better in the faceoff circle. More than that though, he was a much more well-rounded player and was able to drive way more offense. His puck control was better and he was more comfortable hanging onto the puck for stretches in the offensive zone.
I’d say that Nelson may not hit the same totals next year and that 25 goals and 55-60 points is a more realistic expectation but I’ve already been wrong about his abilities once. He’s solidified himself as a quality center and this year, he was certainly New York’s second-best forward. Another plus is that he comes at what is now turning out to be a very reasonable price and is locked in long-term. Next season, I’d expect for him to once again be relied upon as a key part of the Islanders’ offense.
Here’s today’s poll question (results and discussion will be posted this weekend):
How many points do you expect from Brock Nelson next season?
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