It seems to me that Shero would have to have the best information available... and if possible, hands on... before he can gamble the rare #1OA that he has lucked into. If there is a shadow of a doubt that he and his people cannot realistically push aside on Nolan, can Shero risk it and leave a great Player such as Nico for one of his arch rivals, and Metro opponent?
On the other hand... If Shero & co. can safely determine that both Players are basically on the same plane health-wise going forward, can he pass up the bigger Center that has been wowing the collective Scouts for a much longer period of development?
... IMO Hextall can better gamble... unless he has clear facts that Nolan can be susceptible to major health concerns going forward... If Nolan falls into his lap... with his track record , size and Ratings... I could see him feeling confident following suit and not even thinking of going off the board... but available to listen to all offers that would bring him great return PLUS a good and still high Selection... say 3rd, 4th or possibly 5th... but only biting if it is an offer that he cannot refuse or he has some bad news on Nolan's injury situation.
It seems to be a damned if you do and damned if you don't with Nolan... If he is deemed in good shape health-wise, Jersey may well grab him... if he doesn't Hextall is on the clock... Actually, Nico falling to us is not a bad thing at all... Nolan however could be, if there are lingering medical concerns.
I want Nolan... but in the end I want whomever is better for the Flyers going forward... My only solace now is that Shero is on edge a gazillion times more than we are on this.