The Colorado Avalanche have made a significant trade ahead of Friday’s NHL trade deadline, acquiring top center Brock Nelson from the New York Islanders. In exchange for Nelson, the Avalanche sent defenseman Oliver Kylington, forward Calum Ritchie, and draft picks to the Islanders.
Nelson, 33, has played his entire 12-year NHL career with the Islanders, who drafted him in 2010. He is considered one of the top two-way centers in the NHL, known for his defensive skills and ability to score at a high level. The Avalanche are hoping he can fill the void left by the departure of Nazem Kadri.
The deal also includes forward William Dufour, who has played in 45 games this season for the Bridgeport Islanders (AHL), registering 18 points. Ritchie, 20, made his NHL debut for Colorado seven games ago, scoring one goal. The Avalanche also sent a lottery-protected first-round draft pick to Philadelphia last season and will now send a conditional 2027 first-round pick if their current pick is not in the top 10.
The Nelson trade marks the second significant move for the Avalanche this week, following the acquisition of defenseman Ryan Lindgren from the Rangers. The Islanders are expected to make further moves as their roster is reshaped ahead of the deadline.
Source: https://www.espn.com/nhl/story/_/id/44145374/avalanche-land-brock-nelson-islanders-deadline-nears