New York Islanders Top 5 Draft Picks of Garth Snow Era

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Feb 25, 2017; Columbus, OH, USA; New York Islanders center Brock Nelson (29) against the Columbus Blue Jackets at Nationwide Arena. The Blue Jackets won 7-0. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports /

Number 5: Brock Nelson (Round 1 Pick 30 2010)

New York Islanders fans love to hate Brock Nelson. Trust me I get it. Brock is one of the most frustrating players to watch on this team. He consistently is inconsistent. For periods of a time he just is flat out asleep on the ice and there’s too much talented wasted with him.

But, I like his value at pick 30. Nelson has put up 40 points and at least 20 goals over each of the last three years. On paper that’s pretty solid production from a late first round pick.

His first year in the league he scored 14 goals and had 12 assists for 26 points. Not bad, for a 22 year old getting his first NHL action. He took a step up in 2014-2015 as well, his first year of 20 goals and 42 points.

Though, the issue with Brock is his lack of growth since then. His career high in points is 45 but with his wrist shot he should be able to score 30 goals and put up well over 50 points but he just hasn’t shown the ability to do that yet.

There’s a small glimmer of hope that he can continue to develop and be more consistent. But, even if he doesn’t this wasn’t a bad pick. The Isles got pretty good value out of this end of the first round section.