New York Islanders: 5 Most Likely Pieces To Be Traded By The End Of June

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NEW YORK, NY – JANUARY 18: Brock Nelson #29 of the New York Islanders hits the ice during the second period against the Boston Bruins at the Barclays Center on January 18, 2018 in the Brooklyn borough of New York City. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images) /

Number 2: Brock Nelson

Another former first-round pick from Garth Snow lands on our list here. Brock Nelson is an interesting case study. Over the past four years, he’s averaged 21 goals and 41 points a season, yet is one of the more frustrating guys on the team.

His inconsistency is insane. He will go on a week run and pop in three or four goals and then go silent for the next 15 games. It’s insane how 75 percent of the time he looks like he’s just going through the motions on cruise control yet you can pencil him in for 20 goals and 40 points a year practically.

This year was a bit of a drop off for Brock who had 35 points and 19 goals. It’s a miracle he even reached that number though as it was his worst year in the league.

Nelson is a prime candidate to be moved to clear up a spot on the third line. His role was third line center, which should be something perfect for him, but he failed miserably. Honestly, Brock is probably better suited as a winger but he should be someone else’s problem.

Nelson is an RFA this summer and is due a new contract, it just shouldn’t be from Lou Lamoriello and the Islanders. The Islanders need an upgrade on the third line, like maybe Tyler Bozak, while needing pieces to move for a goalie or defenseman.

Brock is the perfect “NHL throw in” part of a package. He isn’t going to be a focal point, just like everyone else on this list. But due to his age, and scoring potential some NHL G.M. will take him.