Nelson Excited to be Named All-Star

Brock Nelson's always been understated and underrated, so it wasn't much of a surprise that he immediately deflected praise to his teammates after being selected to his first All-Star Game.
"It's exciting for sure, but there are a couple of guys you could probably make the case for," Nelson said. "A couple guys are having some big years, so for me, it's exciting. First time I'm not really familiar with the setup, but I think it will be fun for me, the family and the kids."

This year's All-Star Weekend is taking place at FLA Live Arena in Florida on Feb. 3 and 4. Nelson leads the Islanders with 15 goals and is second on the team with 38 points. Nelson's five game-winning goals also lead the team.
Nelson's all-star nod comes in his 10th season with the team and his production has increased with age. While Nelson is a six-time 20-goal scorer, he eclipsed 30 for the first time last season, netting a career-high 37 goals. Attending an All-Star was never something he actively thought about, instead just focusing on improving his game.

"I don't know if it's something you think about, but you're obviously aware of it and you want to come out and perform and help the team win," Nelson said. "Whether you're picked, I mean, who knows how that works… but it's something I'll remember for sure."
Nelson's 52 goals over the past two seasons are tied for 23rd overall in the league, so it's in the top tier of goal scorers, even if he's considered underrated by his teammates, who were happy him getting some league recognition.
"Really happy for him," Noah Dobson said. "He's been a guy that's deserving. He's flown under the radar a little bit, especially the last couple of years, but it's a great honor for him. I'm sure he's really excited for him and his family, but we're all really happy for him."
While the first eight spots on the Metropolitan Division team are set, with one player from each team assured a spot, there are three spots available via a fan vote. Fans can vote here until Jan. 17 at 11:59 p.m. et.