NY Islanders early season prospect report

Danny Nelson, C, Notre Dame (NCAA)

Perhaps the Islanders' top prospect, Danny Nelson, began his NCAA career on the top line for the Fighting Irish. Nelson and the Irish were blanked in their first game of the season at home against Clarkson University. The following night, the Irish got their revenge, and Nelson recorded the first goal of his career.

After a turnover near the blue line, Nelson crashed towards the net, finding space to knock the puck in off his backhand to give Notre Dame a two-goal cushion. In the two games, Nelson wasn't shy with the puck, recording 11 shots on goal.

Nelson played center behind Will Smith (San Jose Sharks) and Oliver Moore (Chicago Blackhawks) in his time with the USNTDP, but away from the spotlight of those two, he'll have the opportunity to shine as one of his team's go-to players.

Justin Gill, Baie-Comeau Drakkar (QMJHL)

Justin Gill might be with a new team this season, but he's picking up right where he left off. After being traded to the Bai-Comeau Drakkar in the off-season, Gill has already recorded six points in four games, with points in each.

Gill, 20, is one of the older players in the league but has continued to impress after his 93-point performance last season..

Other Notables

Isaiah George, London Knights (OHL) - 5 games, 0 goals, 1 assist
Jesse Nurmi, LW, KooKoo (Liiga) - 11 games, 0 goals, 1 assist
Matias Rajaniemi, D, SaiPa (Liiga) - 8 games, 0 goals, 1 assist
Tomas Machu, D, Youngstown Phantoms (USHL) - 5 games, 0 goals, 2 assists
Alexander Ljungkrantz, LW, Almtuna (HockeyAllsvenskan) - 5 games, 4 goals, 0 assists