Patrick Brown

Brown set career highs in points (12), games played (61), hits (167) and shots on goal (60) last season, splitting time between Ottawa and Philadelphia. Despite his modest improvements, the Senators weren't interested in keeping him around. Brown settled for a two-way contract with the Bruins to help shore up their forward depth, though it's unlikely he sees more than a fourth-line role in Boston. His physicality is a plus, but there's simply not enough offense in his game to justify using a draft pick on him in fantasy.

Brown had played just 33 top-level games over the course of his first five NHL seasons before getting into 44 games last year with the going-nowhere Flyers. He managed just four goals and nine points while also posting an ugly minus-16 rating. It was reported in late September that Brown underwent back surgery and was labeled week-to-week, leaving his status for Opening Night in doubt. There are zero fantasy implications here regardless.

Brown made his way back to the NHL last year, scoring in his only regular-season appearance for the Golden Knights. He also tallied a goal in two playoff appearances, but it's unlikely the 28-year-old is going to become a fixture at the NHL level. He had a modest 21 points in 60 games with AHL Chicago last year and figures to spend the bulk of 2020-21 either on the Golden Knights' taxi squad or with their new AHL affiliate, the Henderson Silver Knights.

Brown skated in just seven games for the Hurricanes last season, going pointless with four PIM, four shots on goal, and a minus-4 rating. He spent the majority of the season at AHL Charlotte, where he recorded just 10 points in 60 games. Overall, Brown is a useful utility player who plays a sound game in all facets, while not excelling in any one particular area. On the positive side, his versatility allows him to play both center and wing, and his durability and dependability means he can slot in to a lower line role on an emergency basis. While there may not be much upside in terms of Brown’s scoring ability, the Hurricanes will probably continue to call upon his services as an injury replacement this season.

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