Ersson Learns Islanders Nelson’s Competitive Mindset No Different Than Tkachuk Brothers

Nelson ran into netminder Samuel Ersson following his rebound attempt.

While neither team had much to play for besides national pride, New York Islanders center Brock Nelson and his teammates were going all-out against Team Sweden on Monday night. 

It was a game that didn't matter, with the finals already set. 

But for Nelson and his teammates and the entire Sweden team, it meant a whole heck of a lot. 

Point-wise, it's been a silent tournament for No. 29, but he has been effective doing the little things in limited minutes at 5-o-5, playing on the second penalty-kill unit, as well. 

Against Sweden, Nelson brought some fire in the middle frame. 

Down 2-1 to Sweden nearly nine minutes into the second period, Nelson collected a Matt Boldy feed in front of the net and put a shot on Swedish netminder Samuel Ersson.

The rebound was sent to the corner, and Nelson's momentum sent him toward the net.

He was forced to evade the approaching Rasmus Dahlin, resulting in him putting his two hands on Ersson for a light shove:

Regardless, Dahlin responded with a shove on Nelson moments later, though the two soon after separated with no penalty called.

The championship game between the United States and Canada will take place at TD Garden in Boston on Thursday, with puck drop set for 8:00. 

Nelson is expected to remain in the lineup.

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