Brock Nelson is a fine addition to Team USA roster

New York Islanders center Brock Nelson has been named to the official 23-man roster for Team USA. Nelson will be part of a star-studded American side that features Toronto Maple Leafs’ superstar Auston Matthews, Vancouver Canucks captain Quinn Hughes, and the Tkachuck brothers.

Nelson’s name had been rumored for consideration on the Team USA roster for some time. However, given the sheer number of American-born stars in the NHL, Nelson wasn’t a lock to make the team.

Notable snubs include Montreal Canadiens rising star Cole Caufield, Utah Hockey Club captain Clayton Keller, and Detroit Red Wings forward Alex DeBrincat.

Adding Nelson was a great choice for the American side as they get a veteran player who knows what it takes to win. Nelson has represented the US in international play and has consistently been a strong contributor at both ends of the ice.

While the American squad may have passed up on some firepower to add Brock Nelson, the fact is that he is a fine addition. Nelson is a versatile forward who can play center and wing, kill penalties, and play on the power play.

His defensive skills are underrated, while he maintains a subtle leadership presence. Also, his speed and agility make him one of the best forwards in the league. Nelson will most likely play in Team USA’s bottom six.

But make no mistake, Brock Nelson is hardly a bottom-six forward. Don’t be surprised if Nelson jumps into the top six as matchups become a crucial part of 4 Nations tournament games.

Brock Nelson is a chameleon on Team USA

A piece in The Athletic called Brock Nelson a “chameleon,” given his versatility and usefulness across the lineup.

I’d like to think of Nelson as a Swiss army knife. Nelson is the type of player who can be deployed in any situation. That fact makes him a strong presence at all times.

But when looking at such a deep lineup like this American squad, it’s easy to see how Nelson could play just about anywhere. Putting Nelson with Auston Matthews gives the Americans a killer duo.

Pairing Nelson with Jack Eichel makes for an experienced combo that can play second-line minutes. But if Nelson plays with Jack Hughes or Dylan Larkin, even in a checking role, Team USA could have the best-scoring checking line in the tournament.

In short, Brock Nelson is by far the most adaptable player on the American side. No other forward can move up and down, and side to side, the way that Brock Nelson can. Nelson could become Team USA’s not-so-secret weapon.