Nolan Patrick's latest decision could indicate a potential move on the horizon

Philadelphia Flyers forward Nolan Patrick was once described by NHL Director of Central Scouting Dan Marr "as complete an NHL package as you are going to find. From his pedigree, his skills, and assets, to his performance impact to date, he has everything any NHL team is looking for in a top prospect."

Of course, the Flyers took his word to heart when they drafted Patrick out of the Western Hockey League with the 2nd overall selection in the 2017 NHL Draft, which was held in the City of Brotherly Love, no less. 

Patrick put up respectable numbers in his first two seasons, compiling 61 career points in his first 145 career games. However, due to chronic migraines owing from multiple concussions, he sat out the entirety of the 2019-20 NHL Season. He returned to appear in 52 games this season, but put up his lowest statistical output of his young NHL career, scoring just four goals combined with a team worst minus-30 plus minus rating.

Coming off of his one-year, $874K contract, he's now heading into the offseason where he'll be a restricted free-agent, and he's made the first move towards his future. According to TSN’s Frank Seravalli, Patrick has made the decision to hire his third agent in as many years. He'll now be represented by Rich Evans of Point West. 

According to Seravalli, he could see Patrick wanting a fresh start with a new team next season, though he believes that the Flyers would like to keep him around longer and see what he can do after a full, healthy offseason and training camp. 

Of course, there's also the matter of the upcoming NHL Expansion Draft for the 32nd franchise, the Seattle Kraken. The Flyers will have seven forward expansion protection spots, and Patrick may be among the players they choose not to fill one of those spots with. With Kevin Hayes being brought aboard in 2019 along with the recently signed Scott Laughton and prospect Morgan Frost in the fold, Patrick could find himself as one of the odd men out. 

Patrick recently stated that this offseason was the most important of his life. He's now taken the first step of that offseason.