Let’s get this party started whooo ha!! Let’s get the most anticipated Philadelphia Flyers season in recent memory started already. While looking into the magic eight ball, the future seems very bright for this young, up and coming organization.
The fun and the party started when the Flyers selected Center Nolan Patrick with the second overall pick in this years draft. Patrick has the billing to be the cornerstone of the franchise for many years to come. It appears that he is fitting right in with the fans and media in Philadelphia. Patrick is saying all the right things, so let’s break down his past meeting with the media to see how he is progressing following his second hernia surgery.
Patrick has amazing talent. When he talks these days, people tend to listen. Patrick starts off the meeting with the media stating, “Yeah obviously they have to do their research. I don’t think an NHL team will draft you without knowing what their injury history is.”
The Brandon Wheat Kings product continues, “I’m happy to be here so. The only 2 teams that brought me in regards to injuries was Jersey and Philly. So, I kind of had a feeling towards Philly, as Jersey didn’t put much effort into that.”
Not that it matters anymore since the draft is complete, but it appears the Flyers had an inkling that Patrick would fall to them with the 2nd overall pick. The Flyers thoroughly did their homework on the hernia surgery that he had prior to the draft, and they obviously felt that this was just a minor bump in the road for this world class talent in Patrick. Just how bad was his injury before the surgery?
“This was a totally different procedure. I was 60% when I first started playing, and I probably got up to 70-75%. But, I never had any wind during the games. It was hard skating with that injury. I didn’t want to miss the whole season. I talked with one of the best doctors Meyers, and just waited to see him.”
The young prospect continued, “It’s not like its four weeks and not ready to go. I’m good now and excited to get back on the ice. When the doctor told me I needed to get it done. I told him right there ok. I feel great and I’m really happy to get it done.”
If Patrick finished the season at 70-75% as he states, then the Flyers got an absolute steal with drafting him. While playing for the Brandon Wheat Kings in 2016-17, Patrick tallied 20 goals, and 26 assists for a total of 46 points in 33 games played. Let’s imagine Patrick at 100%. He might of had another 102 point season like he did for the Wheat Kings in 2015-16. This young kid is a natural goal scorer that just wants to get better as he states when referencing developmental camp.
“I was watching drills and film. It’s something I will take back to my skate coach. There’s a lot to learn. I would love to take part, but it is what it is. Every player out there wants to play, and doesn’t want to watch. I’m going to focus on strength and speed. Bigger, stronger. Just stay positive no one wants to miss 3-5 games. Just focus on my rehab. Right now just trying to get healthy.”
This kid eats, breathes, and loves the sport of hockey. Even with Patrick being hurt and unable to participate in the developmental camp. He was still able to learn and prepare for this upcoming season. Patrick was directly involved with the training staff and coaches. Could he skate no, but with watching film and watching some of his teammates practicing it could really help his development. According to Patrick, remaining positive is just one key to overcoming this type of injury.
“My dad and uncle both got hurt early in their careers. Obviously not the same injuries. They said just stay positive as much as you can. My dad he’s a positive guy. Growing up I learned from him. He helps me stay positive.”
The young phenom is no stranger to injuries. Of course just about everyone known to man knows by now this was Patrick’s second hernia procedure. In addition, to make matters worse he inherited a facial infection that kept him off the ice this past week. But, it is a good thing he is surrounded by positivity. Hopefully he continues to remain positive as many would love to see him at 100%, and make the NHL in his first season with the Flyers organization. Patrick hopes that injuries are behind him, as he says the right thing on his outlook for the season.
“It would be a huge honor. Obviously, every kid growing up wants to make the NHL. I don’t set too many goals for myself, but I’m just trying to play first year as eligible.”
This is how stars are made. Patrick possesses the will and determination to succeed at the NHL level. He should make the Flyers roster this coming fall barring injury. Patrick would be a huge boost to a Flyers offense that has seen its struggles the past few seasons. One thing is certain Flyers fans the future is bright in Flyer land.
Mandatory Credit: David Banks-USA TODAY Sports
