Brandon Wheat Kings forward Nolan Patrick nearing return to lineup

Winnipegger Nolan Patrick will return to the Brandon Wheat Kings lineup in early January according to an article on the team’s website.

RELATED: Brandon Wheat Kings Nolan Patrick tops NHL Central Scouting Futures List

The projected first overall pick in the 2017 NHL Draft hasn’t played since October due to an upper-body injury. Patrick was forced to skip Hockey Canada’s national junior team selection camp earlier this month as he was still recovering. It’s not known if the injury is related to the hernia surgery he underwent in the off-season.

Get daily National news

Get daily Canada news delivered to your inbox so you'll never miss the day's top stories.

Sign up for daily National newsletter Get Started

By providing your email address, you have read and agree to Global News' Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.

The 18-year-old forward plans to start practicing again when the Wheat Kings’ week-long Christmas break ends on Boxing Day.

RELATED: Manitobans invited to play in CHL Top Prospects Game

Patrick was recently invited to play in next month’s CHL Top Prospects game. He has four goals and five assists in six games this season.