CALGARY, Alberta — Prior to Thursday evening’s announcement, Brock Nelson hadn’t given much consideration to the potential of making his first All-Star Game. There were other candidates for the Islanders’ lone guaranteed spot (others will have a chance to qualify by fan vote), but Nelson had never been before.
The 31-year-old center is typically seen as underestimated, and not without reason. He lacks the popularity of teammate Mathew Barzal, and despite playing in a large market, the Islanders are frequently overshadowed by other locals. Nelson received some acclaim for his 37-goal season in 2021-22, and while he is on course to fall short of that number this season, he is surpassing himself by producing nearly a point per game. And he is now getting acknowledged for it.
Nelson, who did not score in the Islanders’ 4-1 loss to the Flames, described the situation as “absolutely exciting.” “You could certainly make a case for [Ilya Sorokin], Barzy, and Noah Dobson, three players who have had outstanding years. It is really exciting for me. It will be my first trip and I’m not too familiar with the setup, but I think it will be fun to go with my family and children.”
Nelson has grown to become one of the NHL’s top two-way centers, whether or not this can be considered a stealth makeover. Even though his shot percentage has declined to 12.8 percent from a career-high 21.6 percent last season, he is accumulating career-high assist totals.
Nelson’s advanced statistics at five-on-five are slightly worse than Barzal’s, but the Islanders have outscored opponents 35-21 while he has been on the ice. There is little disagreement that he deserves All-Star status.
Dobson replied, “It’s incredible.” “Extremely pleased for him. I believe he has been a worthy individual. I believe he has flown somewhat under the radar during the past few years. It is a tremendous honor for him. I’m certain he’s thrilled for him and his family. We’re all thrilled for him.”
Coach Lane Lambert remarked, “I think it’s great.” “Up to this point, he’s had a good year, and he’s deserving.”
Adam Pelech was the only Islanders player invited to the All-Star Game last year due to the team’s terrible first half. This year, it would be surprising if Nelson wasn’t accompanied in Sunrise, Florida by at least one other teammate.
Barzal entered Friday night’s game against the Flames with 41 points in 40 games and was on track to match his career-high goal total. Dobson is playing 20:49 minutes per night, may match his 51-point total from last season, and has become a lot more dependable defender. If Pelech hadn’t sustained a head injury a month ago, he may also be in contention, and there have been nights since when his absence has been glaringly apparent.
Sorokin ranks first in the league with a.924 save percentage through 30 games. It is unknown whether the Islanders would want Sorokin to risk injury by participating in a preseason game, but there is little doubt that he is one of the league’s finest goaltenders.
In other words, this was not an empty honor bestowed upon Nelson. He dislikes talking about himself out of habit, but he may need to get used to it over the following month.
Nelson stated on the selection, “I don’t know if it’s something you consider, but you’re obviously aware of it.” “You desire to perform and contribute to the team. Who knows how that works, what the circumstance is, if you are chosen. You have a lot of guys, and Barzy will also be around for a number of years. Definitely something I will remember.”
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