By Kevin Durso, Sports Talk Philly editor 
In one week, the Flyers will use the second overall pick to add a key piece to a future already bright with prospects. But the speculation leading up to the pick is going to create quite a stir.
It seems obvious that there are two players that clearly top the list of prospects in Nolan Patrick and Nico Hischier and while everyone is getting swept up the hype of the two, and rightfully so, GM Ron Hextall is being careful to not get ahead of things when it comes to the pick.
"If we go by what all the people say or past drafts…look at past drafts. Ever see the re-drafts, like five years later? You got a guy that was maybe 20th that should've gone second," Hextall said. "You got to be really careful about going by public opinion. You have to pick what you think is going to be the best player even though it may not be popular at the time.
"I'm not hinting at anything there. I'm just hinting saying that if you feel strongly about a player being rated better, maybe he's fifth and he should be rated third and you feel better about taking him, then take him."
Hextall did meet with both Patrick and Hischier at the NHL Combine and Patrick made a visit to Voorhees for a medical check by Flyers doctors.
Hextall also talked about the upcoming Expansion Draft and the protection list the Flyers will need to submit on Saturday. The list will be announced on Sunday morning, but Hextall said the Flyers will protect seven forwards, three defensemen and one goalie protected.
The goalie situation the team faces is another issue. The Flyers will be leaving a goalie available for Vegas, whether it's Michal Neuvirth or Anthony Stolarz, but really needs to have another goalie available for the roster in October. That includes leaving the door still open for a return for Steve Mason. Hextall said that Mason remains an option, but that there are other goalies out there as well.
After making a deal last Friday to re-sign Shayne Gostisbehere long-term, the attention has shifted to some of the other free agents the Flyers need to address. Jordan Weal headlines the group, and talks are progressing. The most recent update reported that the Flyers and Weal had agreed on a contract term, but not money, so the negotiations are ongoing. Hextall did not have an option as of Friday, but it sounds like the two sides are closing in on a deal as July 1 approaches.
