Hes definitely a top-six guy at the very least when hes in his prime, but hes going to have to learn a completely different way to play in a different situation, Wheat Kings GM Grant Armstrong recently told The Province.
Im hoping that the team will take their time and not rush Nolan Patrick and to let him come along slow and develop. When hes ready to do more, the team will know it."
Nolan's uncle, defenceman James Patrick, was also an NHL first-rounder. Since he's a Winnipeg native, Jets fans will be hoping their slim 2.7 per cent odds come through.
"I think there are people who believe hes going to walk in and save a team. Thats not what he is right now," Armstrong said.
Hes a solid, two-way guy who takes as much pride in his defensive play as making a play offensively. Hes a guy who eventually youre going to put out in all situations. To me, hes going to be like a Bo Horvat. Hes going to have that type of impact to your lineup when hes suitably ready.