There is talk that Philadelphia Flyers forward Nolan Patrick will miss the opening part of the season due to an upper-body injury. Flyers beat reporter Sam Carchidi of the Philadelphia Inquirer confirmed the possibility on Twitter. Patrick was the second overall pick in the 2017 NHL Draft.
AV says he doesn’t know if he’ll be ready for opener. It doesn’t sound promising. https://t.co/jxtEffIYOL
— Sam Carchidi (@BroadStBull) September 21, 2019
Nolan Patrick Could Miss Start of Season
It would be a shame if Patrick were to miss part of the early season. The 21-year-old had a respectable sophomore campaign in 2018-19 with 13 goals and 31 points in 72 games. Those totals were almost the exact same as his rookie year when he scored 13 goals and 30 points. Those numbers could improve in year three if Patrick is able to return to the ice quickly.
Patrick is expected to battle Kevin Hayes for the second centre position this year. Hayes has the edge with his experience and huge contract but Patrick has a higher ceiling. The unnamed injury likely solidifies Patrick’s slot on the third line for the moment. This could help the young skater as he would play against weaker opposing lines at even strength while still seeing the ice with the second power play.
What It Means
A lingering injury likely pushes Scott Laughton up to the top-nine and creates an opening for a prospect like Morgan Frost. It is hard to project exactly what the Flyers will do as they have not announced what is specifically troubling Patrick. The team is being very quiet regarding their young centre. A concussion would be among the worst things as such injuries can derail players for an entire year. Colorado Avalanche defence prospect Conor Timmins missed all last year recovering from a concussion. Philadelphia looks like a strong wild card team this year but they will need Patrick to reach their full potential. This is a situation to watch closely as we approach the start of the regular season.
PHILADELPHIA, PA: Philadelphia Flyer Nolan Patrick skates with the puck against the Tampa Bay Lightning on November 17, 2018 (Photo Credit: Kate Frese/ Last Work On Hockey)
