Capitals Have Reportedly Expressed Interest In Brock Nelson As Forward Rental Option

The Washington Capitals currently sit atop the NHL standings and hope that success translates to the postseason, and per industry sources, they've looked at New York Islanders forward Brock Nelson as a potential rental option.

Via The Hockey News colleague Stefen Rosner, sources say that the Capitals have inquired about trading for Nelson in order to add some forward depth ahead of the Stanley Cup Playoffs.

Nelson, a two-time 60-point scorer and former NHL All-Star, is a pending unrestricted free agent and carries a cap hit of $6 million. In order to acquire him, Washington would not only have to clear some cap space but give up some pieces in return to make it worth New York's while.

As Rosner points out, the Islanders would want prospects and picks in exchange for Nelson, and that could include the likes of a forward like Henrik Rybinski or defensive options like Ryan Chesley or Vincent Iorio.

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As ESPN's Rachel Doerrie reported last week, the Capitals could have to part ways with its influx of defensive prospects in order to bring in forward depth for a deep run.

Through 46 games this season, Nelson has 13 goals and 15 assists and is on pace for 50 points. Though his production this year hasn't replicated the 69-point or 75-point seasons he put up the past two years, the 33-year-old center is a proven scorer and contributor who can bring a new look to the offense.

He could also be the key to unlocking the team's ever-changing third line, with Lars Eller struggling to find consistency in his game.

With the Capitals needing to spark their 5-on-5 scoring, Nelson would be a good addition to the mix, bringing his shooting and playmaking acumen to the lineup while bringing some chemistry to the forward lines.