The NY Islanders can expect a similar return to the Bo Horvat and Elias Lindholm trades in a deal for Brock Nelson

The NY Islanders have been playing better as of late, taking 8 of a possible 12 points in their last six games. But the Isles still sit seven points out of playoff position and still look to be sellers before the March 7 trade deadline.

Brock Nelson remains one of the biggest fish in the pond, and Frank Servalli of Daily Faceoff believes the Islanders can get a similar return to what they gave up in the Bo Horvat trade with the Vancouver Canucks, or the Canucks acquisition of Elias Lindholm last year.

Islanders need a haul for Nelson

“We’re looking at a first-round pick as the minimum starting price plus a couple lower-tier pieces,” says Servalli. “Whether those be prospects or later-round picks.”

Acquiring Horvat, the Isles gave up what became the 17th overall pick in 2023, Anthony Beuvillier, and Aatu Raty. That pick was eventually moved to Detroit for defenseman Filip Hronek. Beauviller never panned out in Vancouver, moved in November of the following season to the Chicago Blackhawks for a 5th-round pick, and Aatu Raty has struggled to remain part of the NHL squad, playing 23 games in the three seasons since.

The deal between the Canucks and Flames for Lindholm is likely more of the type of return the Islanders are hoping to see if they decide to move Nelson.

The Canucks sent the 28th overall pick in 2024, Andrei Kuzmenko, Hunter Brzustewicz, and Joni Jurmo to Calgary in exchange for the rental center.

Kuzmenko wanted out of Vancouver and has struggled after extending his contract with the Flames scoring just two goals and adding nine assists to rough 33 games this season. Brzustewicz was one of the OHL’s top defensemen in the OHL last season and is one of the Flames top prospects at 20 years old. Jurmo hasn’t exactly panned out, bouncing between the AHL and ECHL this season at 22 years old.

What the Islanders have going for them is the lack of centers available as we near the deadline. Nelson has had a down season in terms of production but has picked up his play of late, registering seven points (3 G, 4 A) in his last six games.

Lou Lamoriello isn’t known for selling but he’ll have no choice unless the Islanders go on a massive run before the 4 Nations Face-Off.