Toronto Maple Leafs 2017 NHL Draft Preview: Number 1 – Nolan Patrick
By Austin Owens
As the Toronto Maple Leafs and the rest of the NHL prepare for a draft year that has featured a lot of movement, Nolan Patrick still sits atop the rankings.
The 2016 draft had several headlining players that controlled the main portion of the coverage in North America. This was particularly true north of the border, as the Toronto Maple Leafs and every other Canadian team failed to reach the playoffs.
This summer will be a different story. There has been a lot of movement in the draft rankings over the course of the season.
However, there is no surprise at the top, where we start with the consensus first overall pick: Nolan Patrick.
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Patrick has been the top player in this draft since the beginning of the season. This year didn’t start out the way he envisioned though, as he missed three months with a groin injury.
When Patrick returned, he showed his effectiveness, scoring 18 points in his first 12 games. He finished the season well over the point-per-game mark. (He finished fifth in scoring on the Wheat Kings this season.)
However, he was injured just before the playoffs after falling awkwardly in a game against Regina. He missed Brandon’s first round series against the Medicine Hat Tigers, where they were swept.
Some scouts have stated that, because of his injury-riddled season and the emergence of Nico Hischier, Patrick’s position at the top of the board could be in jeopardy. However, he still has gotten the top grade in several mocks and rankings.
Here’s a snippet from Future Considerations on Patrick:
"“A lethal combo of size, speed and skill; plays a power game and possesses one of the most well-rounded skill sets in the CHL…has great wheels and is able to surprise with his speed…hands and ability to protect the puck is high end…plays very responsibly with the puck, but also makes something happen each time he possesses it…uses his strength and reach to guard the puck, driving his way around the offensive zone…a heads-up, confident passer…has a sharp release on his wrist shot and is capable of beating a goaltender from anywhere in the offensive zone.”"
Barring another injury before the draft combine, Patrick should hear his name first come June. He’s drawing comparisons to Jonathan Toews, which is a huge feather to have in his cap already.
What’s your opinion of Patrick? How does he potentially compare to other players taken first overall in recent drafts? Share your thoughts in the comments section.