Nelson is opting for another year at Notre Dame, delaying his professional debut. Why did he choose to return to college?
New York Islanders forward prospect Danny Nelson has elected not to turn pro and will return to Notre Dame for his senior season, The Hockey News can confirm.
The Islanders were very interested in him joining Bridgeport, and while the exact reason why Nelson has decided to go back to school is likely because his older brother, Henry Nelson, is also at Notre Dame, his younger brother will be a freshman this fall.
Nelson, selected by the Islanders in the second round (No. 49) in the 2023 NHL Draft, recorded 13 goals with a collegiate-high 16 assists and a career-high 29 points in 36 games.
The 20-year-old has been very consistent during his time at Notre Dame, Anders Lee's and Kyle Palmieri's alma mater, recording 23 points (nine goals, 14 assists) in his freshman season before 26 points (13 goals, 13 assists) in his sophomore campaign.
Nelson has yet to sign his entry-level deal.
His rights do not expire until Aug. 15, 2027.