A league source told Staple that "all options for Nelson are on the table," meaning he could sign an extension, be traded, or finish the season without a new deal and enter negotiations once his expiring 6-year, $36 million contract ends on July 1.

The NHL trade deadline is fast approaching, and the deals should pick up over the next few days. One of the biggest players on the market is veteran center Brock Nelson, who could be moved with the New York Islanders fading out of the playoff race.