Chicago, IL (CKLQ) – The year long debate is over.
The New Jersey Devils used the first overall selection in Friday nights Entry Draft to choose Nico Hischer of the Halifax Mooseheads.
Moments later, former Wheat King goaltender Ron Hextall walked to the stage and proudly selected Nolan Patrick with the #2 pick.
With that, Nolan becomes the third member of the Patrick family to hear his name called in the first round.
Steve Patrick (Nolan’s dad) was chosen with the 20th overall selection in 1980 while his uncle James was a 9th round pick of the New York Rangers in 1981.
"I didn’t really know where I was going to go," said Patrick.
"I had a feeling I might end up in Philly and i’m really excited about it."
Patrick now joins a Flyers team rich with ties to the Wheat Kings.
As mentioned earlier, Ron Hextall is the General Manager and a long list of alumni have donned the orange and black, including Brian Propp, Brad McCrimmon and Ray Allison.
The club also boasts Brayden Schenn and Ivan Provorov on a roster that finished 5th in the Metropolitan Division last season.
"When you’re going somewhere new and you don’t know anyone it’s much tougher to step in and do well," Patrick told a throng of media following the selection.
"Knowing those guys is going to make the transition if I make it this year, easier for me."
Patrick who battled injuries all year was highly touted from the time he entered the WHL at 16-years-old.
In 163 regular season WHL games, the Winnipeg native has 92 goals, 113 assists and 205 points.
His list of accolades is a lengthy one, including WHL Champion, WHL Playoff MVP, WHL Rookie of the Year, and a Gold Medal at the 15/16 Ivan Hlinka tournament.
He was also recently named to the Hockey Canada World Junior development camp roster.
Its been a long journey to this point, but he say’s he’s ready to take the next step.
"It’s tough for me to put into words right now," added Patrick.
"This is a very special day for me and my family."
