New York Islanders center Brock Nelson. David Kirouac-Imagn Images

Major development in Maple Leafs' trade pursuit of Brock Nelson

Originally posted on Hockey Patrol | By Chris Gerics | Last updated Feb 9, 2025 10:38 AM ET

NHL Insider Elliotte Friedman has given an update regarding Brock Nelson, who is expected to be a prime trade target this season. But will he be dealt?

As trade talks heat up, Nelson is expected to fetch a large return from a team looking to add a premium player in order to make a strong postseason run. The question is: How much is he going to end up costing?

According to a new report from Friedman, it may take a lot more than expected, given New York is trying its best to hold onto him.

If the Islanders are looking to keep Nelson around, what can the Maple Leafs do to still have a fighting chance?

Report: Islanders want to re-sign Brock Nelson

Let's break down why the Islanders would love to keep Nelson around.

Nelson, 33, has been an Islander since being drafted by the team 30th overall in 2010. This season he has 17 goals and 18 assists in 55 games while adding 53.3% on face-off wins.

For his career, Nelson is always a steady and reliable offensive star. In his 12 years with New York he has 292 goals and 274 assists.

With Nelson looking like he is sticking around -- where does that leave the Maple Leafs?

Toronto needs to shift gears to Noah Dobson. With the team needing to have as much defensive insurance as possible, you'd be crazy not to try and offer a Fraser Minten led package for him.

Dobson, 25, is a fantastic two-way defender who would give Morgan Rielly the assistance he needs. This year, he has six goals and 18 assists in 46 games for the Islanders.

If New York is going to value the experience and veteran leadership of Nelson over the potential of Dobson, then Toronto has to be aggressive in pursuing the latter.

Can Brad Treliving convince New York to trade Nelson? Does he shift gears in order to bring in better defense? Only time will tell.

This article first appeared on Hockey Patrol and was syndicated with permission.

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