Jimmy Vesey Bio
James Michael Vesey is an American professional ice hockey left winger for Genève-Servette HC of the National League (NL). He was selected by the Nashville Predators in the third round, 66th overall, of the 2012 NHL entry draft. Vesey attended Harvard University and won the Hobey Baker Award in 2016. After going unsigned by Nashville, Vesey signed as a free agent with the New York Rangers in 2016, where he played three seasons before spending time with several teams including the Buffalo Sabres and Toronto Maple Leafs. Recently, he signed a two-year contract with Genève-Servette HC in Switzerland.
Early Life and Background
James Michael Vesey was born on May 26, 1993, in Boston, Massachusetts. He grew up in a family with a strong hockey background; his father, Jim Vesey, was drafted by the St. Louis Blues in the eighth round of the 1984 NHL entry draft and played 15 games in the NHL. Vesey attended Belmont Hill School, where he began to hone his hockey skills. His early exposure to the sport was influenced by his father’s involvement in hockey, as Jim Vesey coached his son’s teams during his formative years.
Path to Hockey
After high school, Vesey continued his hockey career at Harvard University, where he played for four years in the NCAA. He finished his collegiate career with an impressive 144 points, consisting of 80 goals and 64 assists in 128 games. His outstanding performance earned him the ECAC Player of the Year award after the 2014–15 season. In his junior year, Vesey was nominated for the Hobey Baker Award, which recognizes the top college hockey player in the United States. He made the Hobey Hat Trick, the list of three finalists for the award, twice, ultimately winning it in 2016.
Jimmy Vesey Career
Early Career (2016–2019)
Vesey was selected by the Nashville Predators in the 2012 NHL entry draft. Despite being drafted, he chose not to sign with the Predators, opting instead to enter free agency after completing his college career. On August 20, 2016, he signed with the New York Rangers. During his rookie season, he received the Lars-Erik Sjöberg Award, given to the best rookie in Rangers training camp. Vesey scored his first NHL goal on October 17, 2016, in a game against the San Jose Sharks.
Breakthrough (2019–2021)
In July 2019, Vesey was traded back to the Buffalo Sabres, marking a unique occurrence in professional sports where a player was traded to the same team with the same compensation twice. However, his performance during the 2019–20 season was below expectations, resulting in a career-low nine goals and 20 points in 64 games. Following his time with the Sabres, he signed a one-year contract with the Toronto Maple Leafs in October 2020. Vesey initially played on the second line but eventually transitioned to a bottom-six forward role, contributing five goals and seven points in 30 games.
Notable Works and Milestones
Vesey’s career has been marked by significant moments, including his Hobey Baker Award win and his consistent performance across multiple NHL teams. His ability to adapt to different roles within various teams has showcased his versatility as a player.
Jimmy Vesey Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Jimmy Vesey has been recognized for his contributions to hockey, including his nomination for the prestigious Hobey Baker Award during his college years.
Jimmy Vesey Awards Won
Jimmy Vesey won the Hobey Baker Award in 2016, highlighting his status as one of the top collegiate hockey players in the United States.
Jimmy Vesey Family
Jimmy Vesey’s family has a strong connection to hockey. His father, Jim Vesey, was a professional player and now works as a scout for the Toronto Maple Leafs. His younger brother, Nolan Vesey, was drafted by the Toronto Maple Leafs in 2014 and later signed with the Edmonton Oilers.
Personal Life
Growing up, Jimmy Vesey formed a close friendship with Matt Grzelcyk, a fellow hockey player who was also drafted into the NHL. The two have known each other since childhood, playing together for the Middlesex Islanders and later attending Belmont Hill School. Vesey’s upbringing in a hockey-centric environment has significantly shaped his career and passion for the sport.