|
16/17 Report Cards: Brock Nelson |
|
|
|
|
|
The Islanders have announced that they have named Luke Richardson an assistant coach. Richardson will replace Bob Corkum.
As we continue to grade the 2016-2017 New York Islanders, we now reach the frustration that is Brock Nelson. Look, it won't all be bad when we discuss the lanky forward. The talent is there, the consistency and style is not.
This past season Nelson set a career high in points with 45 and once again he scored 20 goals. That is three straight seasons of at least 20 goals. That is not easy to do in this league and despite the flaws in his game, the results can not be discounted.
However, Nelson always leaves you wanting more. He has terrific hands and an awesome shot and release. Once again though Nelson starts the season strong and then goes long scoring droughts. You might want to call him Mr. October which is a bad nickname for a hockey player as most of his goals come early in the season.
What frustrates me the most about Nelson is his style of play. He is big, but steers clear of contact. He doesn't consistently drive the net, he doesn't win puck battles in the corner. Maybe I'm asking him to be someone he is not but despite Nelson being 6'3" he plays a smallish perimeter game which can be infuriating.
Once again, I don't want to discount Nelson's talent. Results are results and three straight seasons of twenty plus goals is impressive. I just wish the coaching staff could get him to be more consistent. Driving the net and taking the body never goes into a slump and if Nelson could do that consistently he would be a 55-60 point player instead of a 45 point guy.
Moving forward Nelson or Ryan Strome may be pushed off this team by the young forwards itching for jobs. If Nelson is on this roster come October they simply need more from him. I gave Nelson the grade of C but it can also be an incomplete as his talent always has me wanting more.
New York Islanders Blogger • 
Join the Discussion:
»