Islanders Avoid Arbitration, Signing Brock Nelson to A One-Year Deal

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NHL

Islanders and Nelson Avoid Arbitration

Just yesterday, the Islanders and Brock Nelson came to terms on a one year, $4.25 million deal. This deal means they avoid arbitration that was scheduled to be on August 3rd.  Nelson was the last piece to be brought back into the Islanders organization this offseason.

In the four years, he’s been at the NHL level with the team, he’s averaged at least 19 goals per year and roughly 40 points year. With Nelson being on the 3rd line, a 40 point player is not a bad thing but his issue has always been his inconsistency. He has a tendency to disappear off the scoresheet for a few games at a time just when you think he’s gonna break through.

As many have pointed out though, Josh Bailey was the same way at the beginning of his career. He began as a 15 goal, 35 -40 point scorer for most of his 20’s until recently where he’s had a 56 and 71 point season respectfully. I don’t think it’s likely he duplicates Bailey’s career but you never know.

Lack of Depth

With the Islanders lack of depth at center, it was vital that the Islanders brought back Nelson. With Tavares leaving for Toronto, their centers are Barzal, Kovar, Filppula, and Cizikas. There’s still a possibility for another move, but with the defense needing to be addressed, it seems unlikely.

What I would personally like to see is Nelson move to a wing position and have Beauvillier move into the second line center role. Kovar could make out the third line center with Cizikas anchoring the fourth.

The Future

Since this is a one-year deal, it means the Islanders will be right back in the same position next year. With Lee and Eberle both becoming UFA’s at the end of the year, adding Nelson in is not good. Unless he proves he’s worth a longer contract, I think Nelson will most likely be traded before the trade deadline.