It seems like more than other sports, professional hockey players have family ties to current players and those of days past.
Last night was the first game of the CHL vs USA top prospects game, as Parker Trottier, the grandson of six-time Stanley Cup champion and NY Islanders legend Bryan Trottier, was part of the USA's 4-2 victory.
While grandpa came from the Canadian plains, born in Val Marie, Saskatchewan, Parker hails from Edina, MN, currently playing for the NTDP.
Parker Trottier following in the footsteps of his grandfather
Bryan, one of the drivers for the Islanders during their four consecutive Stanley Cup victories from 1980-83, holds the franchise record for points (1,353) and assists (853). Parker, while a terrific player of his own, owns a much different style of play than his grandfather.
Parker earns his share of points, but that’s not his bread and butter. Instead, he is pure energy. Projected as a bottom-six forward, Parker is arguably the NTDP’s toughest forward, who doesn't take a shift off. He’s in the face of the opposition constantly and isn’t afraid to mix things up.
Playing on the USA fourth line last night, Trottier lined up on the wing, centered by Sammy Nelson, brother of the Islanders' second-round pick in 2023, Danny Nelson.
The two linemates are both committed to play NCAA hockey next season at Notre Dame, where Danny is currently playing collegiately.
Trottier, who is eligible for the 2026 NHL Draft, received a ‘C’ grade in the NHL’s Central Scouting preliminary players to watch list, indicating a 4th/5th round candidate.
The Islanders own both their fourth and fifth round picks, as it would be something to see ‘Trottier’ on the back of an Islanders jersey once again.
Trottier will be on the ice again tonight, in game two of the two-game series, which can be seen on the NHL Network at 8 p.m. ET.
