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New York Islanders Four Players With Incredible Bounce Back Seasons

TORONTO, ON - DECEMBER 29: Brock Nelson #29 of the New York Islanders skates against the Toronto Maple Leafs during an NHL game at Scotiabank Arena on December 29, 2018 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. The Islanders defeated the Maple Leafs 4-0.(Photo by Claus Andersen/Getty Images)
TORONTO, ON - DECEMBER 29: Brock Nelson #29 of the New York Islanders skates against the Toronto Maple Leafs during an NHL game at Scotiabank Arena on December 29, 2018 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. The Islanders defeated the Maple Leafs 4-0.(Photo by Claus Andersen/Getty Images) /
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New York Islanders
TAMPA, FL – APRIL 30: Brock Nelson #29 of the New York Islanders rest during a break in Game Two of the Eastern Conference Second Round during the 2016 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs at Amalie Arena on April 30, 2016 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Scott Iskowitz/Getty Images) /

Brock Nelson

Brock Nelson was a whipping boy for Islanders fans long before the 2018-19 season started. He’s been with the New York Islanders since they drafted him 30th overall in the 2010 NHL draft and his play and effort level has always left Isles fans wanting more.

Since 2010 Brock has largely been an inconsistent fringe player for the team. Almost like clockwork Brock Nelson would disappear for months on end every season. From November through to March, Brock Nelson was virtually invisible.

But when Barry Trotz came into the fold Brock Nelson would be relied upon for more than in previous years. Barry told Nelson that he always thought he “had more” when coaching from the opposite bench.

And with the departure of John Tavares that opened up a hole at the second line center spot. The only time the Islanders had relied on Brock as a centerman it hadn’t gone well. In 2017-18 under Doug Weight, Nelson played as the third line center and put up 35 points (his lowest since his rookie year). And also performed his annual disappearing act.

But unlike previous years, Brock stepped up an delivered this season. From puck drop in October to the end of the season (and now into the playoffs) Brock Nelson has been one of the New York Islanders more consistent and effective forwards.

He backchecks, he’s tough defensively, he drives the play forward, and he’s putting up career numbers. Through 82 games played this season he put up 25 goals and a career-high 53 points. His previous career high was 45 points.

Brock Nelson’s season truly comes out of nowhere. He is now the total opposite of what we’ve come to expect from him in previous seasons.

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