Back in March of 2023, Jaxon Nelson was one of my potential targets that the Bruins could target as an undrafted NCAA free agent. Instead, he decided to return to the University of Minnesota for another season. One year later in April 2024, the Bruins signed him to a one-year entry level contract for the 2024-2025 season. I had some concerns at the time with his potential. But what about now?
Nelson, born on March 30, 2000, in Magnolia, Minnesota, had drawn interest from a couple of NHL teams as a free agent. Standing at 6’4″ and weighing 220 lbs, Nelson is a formidable presence on the ice and that is enough of an allure to draw the attention.
Early Career and College Success
Nelson’s hockey journey began in high school, where he quickly gained recognition as one of Minnesota’s top prospects. He committed to play for the Minnesota Golden Gophers in the 2019-20 season. As a freshman, Nelson played in 33 games, scoring two goals and four assists. Despite the abrupt end to the season due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Nelson’s potential was evident.
In the 2020-21 season, Nelson’s role and production increased significantly. He scored five goals and ten assists in 31 games, helping the Golden Gophers win the Big Ten tournament and secure a spot in the NCAA tournament. Although their season ended in the second round, Nelson’s contributions were crucial.
Nelson faced challenges in his junior season, missing 13 games due to injury. However, he still managed to post solid but unspectacular numbers, scoring six goals and four assists. The Golden Gophers reached the finals of the Big Ten tournament and made it to the Frozen Four in the NCAA tournament.
As a senior, Nelson was named captain of the Golden Gophers. He posted career highs in all categories, scoring ten goals and 17 assists for 27 points in 40 games. His leadership and performance were instrumental in the team’s success.
Professional Career and Scouting Report
After an impressive college career, Nelson signed with the Boston Bruins as an undrafted free agent in 2024. He finished the 2023-2024 season with Providence under an amateur tryout agreement as his new contract did not kick in until the 2024-2025 season. He scored 1 goal in 7 games for Providence. He’s had a tough go trying to earn a spot as a regular with Providence this season, appearing in just 23 games and registering just 4 assists.
Nelson’s scouting report highlights his strengths and areas for improvement. His size and physicality should make him a dominant force on the ice. He excels in winning faceoffs, protecting the puck, and creating scoring opportunities for his teammates. His defensive game has come a long way. His positioning is solid and with his long reach he is very adept at breaking up plays.
However, there are areas where Nelson can improve. His skating, while solid, could benefit from increased speed and agility. His speed is just okay, using long, powerful strides to get to where he needs to be. His edge work and lateral movement would help with his agility and needs to improve. Additionally, refining his shooting accuracy and consistency will enhance his offensive contributions. His shot is powerful but the accuracy is lacking.
NHL Potential
Nelson’s potential to play in the NHL isn’t looking all that promising at this point. His size and work ethic are definitely not an issue. Only time will tell if continued development and experience in the AHL brings him any closer. But he will be 25 at the end of March and that does not bode well.
Dom - Hockey 