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Harvard’s Jimmy Vesey has signed a maximum entry-level contract with the New York Rangers. The two-year deal is heavily incentive-laden with performance bonuses potentially equaling over $2 million.
The 2016 Hobey Baker Award winner had 24 goals and 22 assists in 33 games for the Crimson. A native of nearby Charlestown, Mass., Vesey concluded his collegiate career with 80 goals and 64 assists in 128 games.
Originally drafted in the 2012 NHL Draft by the Nashville Predators, Vesey elected for free agency, which began August 16th following the conclusion of his senior season. When the Predators realized they were not likely to sign Vesey, they traded his rights to the Buffalo Sabres.
The Sabres had exclusive negotiating rights with Vesey until August 16. In addition to the New York Rangers, Vesey and his representatives met with the Boston Bruins, Chicago Blackhawks, New York Islanders, New Jersey Devils and Toronto Maple Leafs.