CHICAGO — Ever since the Flyers and New Jersey Devils climbed numerous spots in the April 29 draft lottery, the debate began: Who would go No. 1, Nico Hischier or Nolan Patrick?
For most of the last year, Patrick had been ranked No. 1 by draft experts, but an outstanding season helped Hischier get selected by New Jersey with the top pick Friday night at the United Center.
The Flyers took Patrick with the No. 2 overall selection.
Patrick has become friends with Hischier, and he said he had no hard feelings about not being picked at No.