In 2018, the Islanders faced a turbulent phase, losing key players and transitioning through management and coaching changes. Initially doubtful about Brock Nelson as a second line center, the narrative shifted dramatically as he emerged as a crucial player for the team. From modest goal counts, Nelson’s performances skyrocketed, exemplified by significant goal jumps and standout postseason contributions. His evolution highlights a profound transformation, cementing his status as a pivotal figure in the Islanders' recent playoff successes and overall offensive reliability.
At an age when players often burst on to the scene and have their best numbers, Nelson was just okay, with one very good season and some not so good underlying stats.
I won't pretend to know what happened to Nelson that offseason - maybe it was the new coach, maybe it was a new level of commitment or maturity, maybe it was some new training regimen or cybernetic upgrades.
A jump from 19 goals to 25 is good. A jump from 25 goals in 82 games to 26 goals in just 68 pandemic-stunted games is a little crazy.
Three straight seasons of 37, 36 and 34 goals is territory we had not seen in some time and represents a level of on-ice consistency and reliability the Islanders don't always have.
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