Rookie center Nolan Patrick, the No. 2 overall pick in last year’s draft, is being rewarded for his improved play.
Patrick and Wayne Simmonds were elevated from the third to second line at Monday’s practice in Voorhees, joining Jake Voracek on that unit.
“In the last dozen games, Patty’s played pretty good, strong two-way hockey with the puck,” coach Dave Hakstol said following the Flyers’ first practice after the all-star break. “He’s much more comfortable having the puck. That’s one of the biggest developments we’ve seen in his game. Early on, there were times I thought he was was just trying to make a safe play and move the puck to somebody else.