The Colorado Avalanche made a significant move ahead of the trade deadline by acquiring a standout veteran from the New York Islanders on Thursday night. This bold acquisition strengthens their Stanley Cup hopes by adding even more firepower around star forward.
In exchange for Nelson and AHL forward William Dufour, the Avs sent top prospect Calum Ritchie, a conditional first-round pick (either 2026 or 2027), a conditional third-round pick in 2028, and defenseman Oliver Kylington to the Islanders. The Islanders later traded Kylington to the Anaheim Ducks for future considerations. Additionally, the Islanders retained 50% of Nelson’s $6 million cap hit, meaning Colorado will only pay $3 million for the remainder of the season.
Nelson, 33, has recorded 20 goals and 43 points in 61 games this season and is a versatile forward who can play both center and wing. His arrival comes at a critical time for the Avalanche, who are currently holding the top wild card spot in the Western Conference with a 36-24-2 record and are firmly in the mix for a deep playoff run.
Avalanche GM Chris MacFarland had previously hinted at a big trade, emphasizing the need to strengthen both their forward and defensive lines. Nelson’s addition provides another reliable scorer to support MacKinnon, who has been dominating the league this season. The 29-year-old has accumulated 98 points (25 goals, 73 assists) and was named the NHL’s First Star of the Month for February, while also recently winning MVP at the 4 Nations Face-Off, where he led Canada to a gold medal.
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