Avalanche Acquire Brock Nelson in Major Trade with Islanders

Colorado strengthens its roster ahead of the playoffs by addressing a key need at second-line center.

The Colorado Avalanche traded for veteran center Brock Nelson from the New York Islanders, along with prospect William Dufour, in exchange for multiple assets including a 2026 or 2027 first-round pick, a conditional 2028 third-round pick, forward Calum Ritchie, and defenseman Oliver Kylington.
Brock Nelson, 33, has 20 goals and 23 assists this season and is regarded as a strong two-way center, filling a critical gap in the Avalanche's lineup behind Nathan MacKinnon.
The Islanders, unable to agree on a contract extension with Nelson, opted to trade him as he approaches unrestricted free agency, retaining 50% of his salary in the deal.
The Avalanche have been active in reshaping their roster this season, including trading star Mikko Rantanen earlier and making multiple moves to bolster their depth for a playoff push.
The Islanders flipped defenseman Oliver Kylington to the Anaheim Ducks for future considerations, signaling a broader effort to retool their roster.