2017 NHL Draft Player Profile: First Over All Nolan Patrick

There isn’t a generational player a la Connor McDavid available for the 2017 NHL Draft. But number one on most mock drafts is Nolan Patrick.

I say most because there isn’t a consensus number one pick at the 2017 NHL Draft. It might be Nolan Patrick, but it might also be Nico Hischier. Either might be on their way to New Jersey as of June 23rd.

But Nolan Patrick generally tops the list. We projected the New Jersey Devils to draft the center from the Brandon Wheat Kings first overall.

Must Read: 2017 NHL Mock Draft

In 33 games with the Wheat Kings, Patrick has 46 points. It doesn’t sound like number one overall stats. But Patrick missed 35 games with an upper-body injury during the regular season.

So why does he still get first overall love? I’ll let Sportsnet’s Jeff Marek explain that one:

"Since returning from injury has shown that he deserved to stay atop draft lists. Does everything so well, not flashy but has a pro style about him already. Think Jonathan Toews-lite."

In speaking with Mike Morreale of NHL.com, Director of NHL Central Scouting Dan Marr added the following regarding injuries and ranks:

"“Nolan’s situation is part of the game and for NHL clubs it’s a talking point in draft deliberations,” Marr said at the meetings, which began Thursday and end Tuesday, “and from many recent discussions with NHL personnel it will have absolutely no negative implications or bearing on Nolan’s Draft status.”"

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In the season before his draft year, Patrick put up 102 points in 72 games for his WHL outfit. And added another 30 points in 21 playoff games. That counts for something.

Which reflects exactly how this draft class is shaking up. Even when injured, Nolan Patrick can still lead all other prospects.

The 6’2″ 198lb center from Winnipeg is NHL ready. Going to a divisional rival that desperately needs depth down the middle and playing alongside NHL lottery darling Taylor Hall is enviable. And something the Isles are going to have to learn to deal with.

Why Him?

Why do the Devils take Patrick over Hischier? Hischier has been lights out for Halifax in the QMJHL with 86 points in 57 games.

Jeff Marek believes scouts feel Hischier has shown fatigue which might be something to shy away from:

"Popped big at the WJC and CHL Top Prospects game, but has tailed off slightly. Was injured and since returning has played a slightly different game. Some scouts worry about some of the fatigue he’s shown, but his skills more than compensate."

That’s going to be enough for Jersey, because that’s the only thing splitting the two apart. Both play center. Both have scored a ton. Both have faced injury trouble this season. Both are big bodies.

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With the first overall pick the Devils will take Patrick. With Patrik Elias finally retired from the NHL that leaves Pavel Zacha and Nolan Patrick down the middle for the Devils. We’ll see how that works out for them. Hopefully not well.