Isles, Brock Nelson agree to deal

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One of the New York Islanders' top prospects has decided to turn pro.

Former first-round draft pick Brock Nelson has decided to forgo his final two years at the University of North Dakota. The 20-year-old center agreed to terms with the Islanders on a three-year entry-level contract Tuesday afternoon.

Nelson, picked 30th overall in 2010, flourished in his first two seasons with the Fighting Sioux. The 6-foot-4, 192-pound Nelson led the Western Collegiate Hockey Association with 28 goals this year.

He also became the school's youngest 20-goal scorer since Jonathan Toews (2005-06) during what was a standout 47-point sophomore season.

Along with 2011 first-round pick Ryan Strome, Nelson is regarded as one of the organization's top centers. His decision to forgo the last two years of his eligibility comes less than a week after the Islanders were officially eliminated from playoff contention for the fifth straight year.

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Katie Strang

ESPNNewYork.com

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Katie Strang covers the Rangers, Islanders and Devils for ESPNNewYork.com. She is a graduate of Michigan State University and the Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism.
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