On Jimmy Vesey …
Bob McKenzie of TSN: There is constant speculation of Jimmy Vesey to the Toronto Maple Leafs or the Boston Bruins, but what if he looks at all options that might be available?
“I would have to think elite Cup-contending teams such as Chicago and Los Angeles, amongst others, would walk over broken glass to make Vesey an offer. Might that be an attractive option?”
Vesey could fit into the top-nine on almost any team. He would be a cost effective option in LA or Chicago, but you keep coming back to Toronto and Boston though.
“The Leafs’ hiring of his father notwithstanding, one can easily see why, from a purely family and heart-strings connection, Boston makes the most sense. The Veseys are as ‘Bah-stan’ as ‘Bah-stan’ can be. Jimmy Sr. may scout for the Leafs, but he lives and works in Boston and having once been a Hockey Dad myself, the geography makes a lot of sense, as does the sheer emotional attachment the kid and his family have with the hometown Bruins.”
Some are suggesting the Predators could ask the league to investigate if there was any tampering once he’s signed.
The Predators might like to trade his rights to at least try to get something for him.
Adam Vingan: “Analysis: Jimmy Vesey and the Predators are never, ever, ever getting back together.”
Jimmy Murphy: On the reports that Vesey will sign with the Bruins … “Interesting to say the least considering he is not officially a free agent until August 15.” … “Totally agree Jimmy Vesey had every right to opt for UFA. From all accounts, he’s a stand up kid. That’s why this situation makes no sense.” … “Also, @bostonherald report that Vesey will sign with Bruins is very interesting since he’s not UFA until 8/15. Why choose already?”
Jimmy Murphy: Notice that in the Boston Herald report that it cites a “well placed college hockey source” and not a source that is close to Vesey. Sounds more like speculation.