Avalanche's completed trade with the Islanders has proven to be money well spent

Brock Nelson's trade and subsequent extension have given the Avs stability at second-line center and real scoring punch.

On March 6, 2025 the Avalanche sent Calum Ritchie, Oliver Kylington and a first-round pick to the New York Islanders to land Nelson and prospect William Dufour, addressing a center need that had plagued the roster in big games.

Nestor Quixtan from Mile High Sticking writes that Nelson, now 33, didn't light the world on fire in 2024-25, but he showed enough skill and fit that Colorado didn't hesitate to sign him to a three-year, $22.5 million extension this offseason, a contract that keeps him in town through at least the 2027-28 season with a $7.5 million cap hit.

This season he's responded with real offense, offering 14 goals and 25 points in 35 games, and his playmaking has been especially noticeable during Colorado's recent push up the standings.

That steadiness has helped balance an offense that revolves around Nathan MacKinnon's dynamic high end play, letting MacKinnon get chances while Nelson drives secondary scoring.

From a fan perspective, it feels like the team finally got that second pivot who can win draws, sustain puck possession and create chances without forcing the Avs to rely only on MacKinnon's line. His big goals and consistent play give the Avalanche a reliable middle for tougher opponents.

There are still questions about long-term cap implications and roster flexibility with Nelson's cap hit, but right now the immediate impact on Colorado's game cannot be denied.

If the Avalanche make a deep playoff run this season, this trade will look like one of the smarter deadline additions of the year.