Draft Information
Draft Year: 2017
Overall Selection: 2nd Overall
Drafted By: Philadelphia Flyers
Position: Center
Shoots: Right
Birthplace: Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
The Player Many Thought Would Go First
For years leading up to the 2017 NHL Draft, many scouts believed Nolan Patrick would be the first player selected.
He had everything NHL teams wanted:
- NHL size
- High-end hockey IQ
- Excellent vision
- Strong two-way play
- Leadership qualities
- Proven junior success
Despite battling injuries during his draft season, Patrick remained the top-ranked North American skater by NHL Central Scouting. When the New Jersey Devils selected Nico Hischier first overall, the Philadelphia Flyers were thrilled to add Patrick with the second pick.
A Star in Junior Hockey
Before turning professional, Patrick helped lead the Brandon Wheat Kings to a WHL championship and Memorial Cup appearance.
He played with the confidence and maturity of someone destined to become an NHL first-line center.
Scouts projected him as a player who could impact every situation:
- Even strength
- Power play
- Penalty kill
- Late-game defensive assignments
His future appeared incredibly bright.
Reaching the NHL
Patrick stepped directly into the Flyers lineup during the 2017–18 season.
As a rookie he played 73 games, scored 13 goals, added 17 assists, and helped Philadelphia reach the Stanley Cup Playoffs. He followed that with another 13-goal season in 2018–19, showing steady development as a young NHL center.
His combination of size, skill, and intelligence suggested even bigger seasons were ahead.
When Health Changes Everything
Unfortunately, Patrick’s career became defined by something no player can fully control.
Injuries had already affected his draft season, including sports hernia issues, but later he developed a migraine disorder that forced him to miss the entire 2019–20 NHL season. Those health challenges dramatically altered the trajectory of his career.
Every athlete prepares to compete.
Very few prepare for a battle simply to remain healthy enough to play.
A New Opportunity
Following three seasons in Philadelphia, Patrick was traded and eventually joined the Vegas Golden Knights.
Like every fresh start, there was optimism.
Unfortunately, recurring health issues continued to limit his ability to establish himself.
Sometimes the greatest opponent isn’t across the ice.
Sometimes it’s your own body.
Looking Back After 10 Years
When people review the 2017 NHL Draft, Nolan Patrick’s career is often viewed through the lens of expectations.
That isn’t entirely fair.
His story isn’t one of failing to work hard.
It isn’t one of lacking talent.
It’s the story of an elite prospect whose career was significantly affected by circumstances beyond his control.
Professional sports can be incredibly unforgiving.
Availability often becomes just as important as ability.
What Young Players Can Learn
Talent Isn’t Always Enough
Even the most gifted athletes face challenges they cannot predict.
Never Take a Season for Granted
Every practice.
Every game.
Every opportunity to compete is a privilege.
Perseverance Matters
Patrick repeatedly worked to return despite difficult setbacks.
That determination deserves respect.
Success Has Different Definitions
Not every career follows the path imagined on draft day.
The effort invested along the journey still matters.
Career Grade (First 10 Years)
Skill
A
Elite offensive instincts and hockey intelligence.
Hockey IQ
A
Saw the game exceptionally well.
Work Ethic
A
Consistently battled through adversity.
Career Achievement
C+
Health limited what could have become a much longer and more productive NHL career.
Perseverance
A+
Continued pursuing his dream despite repeated setbacks.
Overall Career Grade
B
Nolan Patrick’s career cannot be measured solely by goals, assists, or games played.
He entered the NHL carrying enormous expectations after being selected second overall by the Philadelphia Flyers. His talent was undeniable, and his early seasons suggested he could become a cornerstone NHL center. Unfortunately, injuries and a debilitating migraine disorder prevented that potential from being fully realized.
His story reminds every young hockey player that success depends on more than ability. Health, perseverance, and resilience are equally important. While his NHL career did not unfold as many expected, Nolan Patrick’s determination in the face of adversity remains a lesson worth remembering.
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