NY Islanders Stock Market: Nelson, Lee, Holmstrom & More

Welcome to the fifth edition of the New York Islanders Stock Market, a series dedicated to analyzing the recent performance of all things related to the Islanders, including players, coaches, management, prospects, and more. While a single game can drastically impact a player’s outlook, this series will rely on more meaningful sample sizes to form well-rounded evaluations.

Since the fourth edition, the Islanders have played 10 games, going 4-6-0 in that span. There have been some embarrassing losses, including a 7-1 defeat to the Buffalo Sabres on Dec. 23 and a 5-3 loss to the last-place Chicago Blackhawks on Dec. 15. Regardless, some individual players have found success while a few have struggled, offering Isles nation a lot to think about at the start of the new year.

Down – Brock Nelson

Brock Nelson has greatly struggled as of late. He has not scored a goal since November, and in the Islanders’ last 10 games, he has just three assists. In their last 10 games, the Islanders have posted a goals percentage (G%) of just 47.06 and an expected goals percentage (xG) of 48.10 at even strength, as per Natural Stat Trick.

Nelson finished the tournament with four goals and six points in seven games, including the game-winner against Canada in the final game of the preliminary round to clinch to top seed in Group A for the United States. Additionally, Carle trusted Nelson to take faceoffs during overtime of the gold medal game against Finland, demonstrating that the 19-year-old was the top faceoff specialist on the tournament’s best team.

Up – Islanders Trade Value

Although both Palmieri and Brock Nelson have faced recent struggles, their trade values have not diminished. The 2025 Trade Deadline market is expected to be particularly weak, meaning teams will likely be eager to acquire the Islanders’ forwards if they become available. If general manager Lou Lamoriello plays his cards rights, he could secure a significant haul for both, potentially giving the Islanders a total of three first-round picks at the 2025 Draft, along with some young roster players and prospects.

The Islanders are on the road out west this week, with a matchup against the Vegas Golden Knights tomorrow (Jan. 9) before taking on the Utah Hockey Club at the Delta Center for the first time ever on Saturday (Jan 11). The Islanders previously played Utah at UBS Arena on Oct. 10 where they fell 5-4 in overtime.