Danny Nelson is exactly the kind of prospect the New York Islanders have been trying to build their foundation around for years.
At 20 years old, Danny Nelson provides the Islanders with size, maturity, and a compete level that translates well to the pro game. Hailing from Maple Grove, Minnesota, the 6-foot-3, 220-pound left-shooting center isn’t the flashiest prospect in the organization, but he’s a strong, responsible player who’s capable in any situation.
Drafted 49th overall in 2023, Nelson is a player that coaches trust when the game gets tight. He wins a lot of faceoffs, plays through tough contact, supports the puck well in all three zones, and does all the small things that don’t show up in the stat sheet.
Nelson Took Another Big Step at Notre Dame
Nelson’s junior season at Notre Dame was his best yet. In his first season as co-captain, Nelson finished with 13 goals, 16 assists, and 29 points in 36 games. He led the Fighting Irish with 7 power-play goals and was fantastic at the faceoff dot, winning 471 draws at a .572 faceoff percentage, which was good enough to be ranked fifth nationally and first in the Big Ten.
Nelson looked more and more confident after each season at Notre Dame. In his freshman year, he managed 23 points despite missing time with an injury. As a sophomore, he continued progressing at a solid rate with a larger role, but his jump as a junior is what led him to become one of the team’s most important prospects.
His skating is sharper, his pace improved, and the offensive game is more dangerous. He has a heavy shot with a quick release and is a consistent threat in the dirty areas, especially on the power play.
Nelson already plays a very mature defensive game. He tracks exceptionally well through the middle, is always looking to block shots, and makes really smart reads under pressure. He makes an impact without the puck, which is why he’s such an appealing NHL prospect.
Family Played a Role in Nelson’s Decision to Not Turn Pro Just Yet
Nelson also has a unique situation waiting for him at Notre Dame. His older brother, Henry, is a 6-foot-2 defenseman who currently plays with him on the roster, and his younger brother, Sammy Nelson, is a highly regarded forward who committed and is set to arrive at Notre Dame as a true freshman next season.
After this past season ended, the Islanders had interest in signing Nelson and potentially getting him to Bridgeport for the playoffs. Instead, he chose to return for his senior season.
From the Islanders’ perspective, it’s a mature decision. Nelson gets one more year to develop and finish his degree while getting to play alongside both of his brothers.
Nelson isn’t rushing the process and is taking a route that could make him even more prepared when he finally turns pro.
World Championship Experience Is a Major Step
Nelson’s preliminary selection for Team USA at the 2026 IIHF Men’s World Championship in Switzerland represents another major step for him.
He already has an impressive international resume, having won gold with the United States at the 2023 IIHF U18 World Junior Championship and back-to-back gold medals in both the 2024 and 2025 IIHF World Junior Championship.
At last year’s tournament, he was named an alternate captain and had six points. Now, he’s getting his shot at the senior level with Team USA, which presents him with a different sort of test.
Competition on the international stage against bigger, stronger, and much more experienced players should accelerate his development. It gives Nelson a look into how his game stacks up against professionals while still being able to go back and continue his development at Notre Dame.
Islanders Can Afford to Be Patient
The Islanders are in no rush with Nelson. They retain his rights through August 2027, so the Islanders have some time to play with. Another year at Notre Dame gives him a chance to sharpen his offensive game and step into a larger leadership role.
There is a clear NHL path here and Nelson projects as a responsible, middle-six center who can give enough offense to be more than just a defensive specialist.
The organization’s prospect pool feels like it’s more complete these days, and Nelson is a big reason why. He may not be a name that jumps out at you yet, but he is one of the better bets to become an NHL player.
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