Nelson, 26, joins the Stars from the Tulsa Oilers (ECHL), where he spent the past three seasons playing under new Stars Head Coach Scott Dutertre.
Standing at 6’0”, Nelson has recorded 65 points across 142 ECHL games, bringing speed and skill to the Tulsa lineup while being relied upon in all situations.
The Illinois native, who can play both at centre and on the wing, played his junior hockey in the OHL, making 234 appearances split between the London Knights and Barrie Colts.
Nelson then committed to St. Francis Xavier University (USports), registering 67 points in 84 games. He led the team with 17 goals during the 2022/23 season before turning professional with Tulsa late in the 2023/24 campaign.
He was awarded the Oilers’ Most Improved Player Award during the 2024/25 season after leading all Tulsa rookies in assists, before finishing as the team’s second-leading scorer last year.
Following the announcement, Nelson said:
“I’m very excited to come to Dundee and experience a different part of the world. I’ve heard nothing but great things about the city, and I’m excited to play in front of the fans and represent the town.
“I have such a good relationship with Scott. Over the past couple of years, I’ve been able to go to him for a number of things, and we’ve built a really strong relationship.
“When I saw that he moved to Dundee, it really interested me because I think he’s going to be a really good Head Coach.
“I play a 200-foot game, and I think my biggest asset is my skating and speed, which I’m excited to bring to Dundee and show the fans.”
Head Coach Scott Dutertre added:
“Nelly is one of those speed guys — he’s got really good boots, and he can generate some sneaky offence.
“He’s good at getting around defenders and keeping his feet moving. We used him on the penalty kill over the past couple of seasons, and character-wise he’s just a really good human being.”
Fans will be able to hear more from Josh and Scott in an exclusive interview on Stars TV, coming soon, with more signing news to follow in the coming week.
