New York Islanders: Brock Nelson Over – Under 45 Points 2017-2018

Our over/under series is back! This time we’re taking a look at New York Islanders forwards Brock Nelson and if he’ll eclipse 45 points.

Brock Nelson, the guy New York Islanders fans love to hate. He’s an easy target, his apparent laziness on the ice at times will make you want to pull your hair out. Despite being on cruise control at times, he can show off an impressive wrist shot from time to time.

Over the past three years, he has over 20 goals and 40 points in each year. On the surface, the numbers aren’t terrible, but he leaves you wanting more.

Is 2017-2018 the year he goes off and reaches his fullest potential, or are we looking at another 20 goal 40 point season? For 2017-2018 I’m setting the over/under for points at 45.

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The Case For The Over

With the Islanders lack of center depth, Brock Nelson seems like the likely second line center. That being said he should have veteran Andrew Ladd and rookie dynamo Josh Ho-Sang on his wings. All three of those players are capable of 20+ goals which could be assist galore for Nelson.

Ho-Sang would be the definite playmaker on that line. Nelson likes to put his wicked slap shot on display and Ho-Sang can likely set him up for a ton of scoring chances this year.

Here’s a look at that sweet wrist shot:

The potential is there, the issue with Brock is living up to expectations.

The Case For The Under

We mentioned his cruise control, and how at times it feels like he’s just going through the motions. Brock Nelson himself is the biggest thing holding Brock back. With a wrist shot like he has, he should be able to put up 30 goals easily, yet his career high is 26 goals.

So far, his career high for points is 45. So he would need a career year to break the over. At age 26 is Brock primed for a breakthrough year?

The Verdict

I’m taking the over, but only slightly. I’m still not the biggest Brock fanatic, like most Isles fans. Although, I think Ho-Sang is going to be a huge factor in helping Brock eclipse the 45 point mark. His goal total should increase as well.

Next: Best Case Scenarios For2017-2018

I don’t think he hits 50 points, but somewhere between 46 and 48 points seems like a reasonable guess. Look on the bright side, maybe if he has a strong year the Islanders can capitalize on his trade value. Positive spin zones only today.