Defenceman Gordie Nelson played three games for the Toronto Maple Leafs in 1969-70. He was fine playmaker but could also play a hard-nosed physical style in his own zone.
Born in Kinistino, Saskatchewan, Nelson starred for the Melville Millionaires of the provincial junior league. In 1966-67 he ventured to Quebec to suit up for a year with the Trois Rivieres Reds. He was a key offensive force from the blueline for the Tulsa Oilers when he was signed as a free agent with the Toronto Maple Leafs.
After playing three NHL contests he was returned to the minors and scored a personal high 48 points in 69 games in 1969-70. Nelson played two years in the WHL with the Phoenix Roadrunners and the Portland Buckaroos before retiring in 1973.