Islanders Taking Steps To Avoid Remaking John Tavares Saga With Brock Nelson

The Islanders are trying to retain Nelson.

Ahead of the 2018 NHL Trade Deadline, the New York Islanders took franchise forward John Tavares' word that he wanted to remain with the organization. 

That mistake was damning for the franchise, who watched their most valued possession walk out the door for nothing, signing a seven-year contract with his hometown Toronto Maple Leafs in free agency. 

While the Islanders fan base was angry with Tavares, there was anger directed at the franchise for not having a contract signed and stamped before the deadline passed. 

While current Islanders general manager Lou Lamoriello wasn't at the helm for that debacle--that was Garth Snow--it sounds like the organization will not be making the same mistake with Brock Nelson.

The 33-year-old pending unrestricted free agent forward has yet to say in any media availability that he wants to remain with the Islanders. 

However, in conversations with The Hockey News, Nelson has refuted reports that he is Minnesota Wild-bound while sharing how much being a lifelong Islander weighs on his decision.

Per industry sources, the Islanders are keen on keeping Nelson around and that it would be a shock to see Nelson dealt, especially with Long Island within striking distance of a wild-card spot as we hit the NHL's 4 Nations Face-Off break. 

The belief is that, at the right price, Nelson would want to return as well. 

If the two sides don't get on the same page regarding an extension, it would be a gusty move to hold onto No. 29 past the March 7th NHL Trade Deadline.

Nelson is the top name on NHL trade boards, and given the potential return, the Islanders' decision to sign Nelson will impact the franchise's short-term and long-term future.

The Islanders' active effort to retain Nelson already shows more competence than we saw in the Tavares saga. 

Can they make a deal?

If not, that likely forces Lamoriello's hand to move Nelson before losing him for potentially nothing.

Lou knows that the fanbase won’t stand for this type of historical repeat.

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