The Fighting Irish will have two Nelsons in its lineup in 2026-27 in senior Danny Nelson (NYI) and freshman Sammy Nelson (2027 Draft-eligible). The brothers are both alumni of the US National Team Development Program, following very similar paths in their respective hockey careers thus far.
Danny was a second-round draft choice of the Islanders (49th overall) in 2023, and is considered a top-10 prospect in a deep Isles’ prospect pool. Additionally, during his time in South Bend he also competed for Team USA at two World Junior Championships, as well as this year’s World Championship. Leading the Big 10 in face-off win percentage last season, the physically imposing pivot (6’3″ 216 LBS.) is projected to man the top line, and will serve as the team’s captain.
Younger brother Sammy is a potential top-10 draft pick next summer, and missed the draft cutoff by four days this year due to his September 19 birth date. Reminiscent of his older brother, he was lauded by scouts at this year’s U18 World Junior Championship for his strong physical play, ability to generate shots, effectiveness in the faceoff dot, and maturity in driving the play against top international competition. He is projected to begin the 2026-27 season as a second-line winger.
