A veteran forward is reportedly leaving the Colorado Avalanche following the team's heartbreaking playoff exit in the first round against the Dallas Stars.
At the last trade deadline, the Colorado Avalanche acquired one of the most coveted trade targets when they completed a deal with the New York Islanders involving Brock Nelson.
General Manager Chris MacFarland paid a hefty price to get him, sending interesting prospects Oliver Kylington and Calum Ritchie, as well as two draft picks.
Unfortunately, his impact in Colorado was limited: he couldn't score a goal in the playoffs but still played a key defensive role.
In his end-of-season press conference, the Avs GM mentioned that while he didn't score, he's a great player:
«Brock came in and did a good job. He didn't get a goal in the playoffs, but, like, we don't judge everything by goals, right? He's a very strong defensive player. He's a big body. He's hard to play against in his own way. He's been a proven goal scorer in this league. That's the danger of short sample sizes in the playoffs, right? If we move on and he gets five goals in Round 2 and whatever, everyone forgets about Round 1."
Nelson, 33, is set to become a free agent on July 1st and could be looking to leave the team this summer, according to a new report.
Indeed, nothing indicates Nelson will sign an extension with the Avs this summer:

Let's say Brock Nelson walks to Minnesota like he's expected to...
— Raj - Altitude Sports Radio (Alex Rajaniemi) (@RajOnRadio) May 20, 2025
If Colorado then somehow signs Sam Bennett to a 7 year, $7M AAV contract, would you still be okay with the overall result Ritchie/1st trade?
Cuz I would. I most definitely would. #GoAvsGo
If the player were to hit free agency, many teams are likely to show interest in what could turn into a bidding war to get him.
After all, despite failing to score in the playoffs, he still scored 43 points in 61 games with the Isles and 13 in 19 games with the Avs.
Brock Nelson, acquired by COL, is a veteran scoring centre. A prolific creator of scoring chances, rush opportunities, and goals at 5v5 who handles the puck well. Hasn't necessarily had the defensive impact his reputation dictated; he's an offensive player first and foremost. pic.twitter.com/ViLao2su6w
— JFresh (@JFreshHockey) March 7, 2025
Stay tuned for details on Nelson's contractual situation and the Colorado Avalanche's offseason plans.