As reported by TSN's Bob Mckenzie late Friday afternoon, Hobey Baker Award winner Jimmy Vesey will sign a two-year entry-level deal with the New York Rangers. The Harvard forward chose the bright lights of Broadway after meeting with seven other NHL teams including the Toronto Maple Leafs this week.

The Leafs reportedly made an impressive presentation to the 23-year-old winger, but the choice of the Rangers was likely a combination of closer proximity to Vesey's family in Massachusetts and having Kevin Hayes on the roster.

Hayes is a Boston native, friend and workout partner of the big winger during the off-season and like Vesey went the free agent route after playing four years in the NCAA.

Although adding Vesey would have been a coup for Toronto, the club is likely pleased that talented winger did not end up with the division rival Boston Bruins or Buffalo Sabres, who traded for his negotiating rights prior to the NHL Draft in June.

The signing in New York could have a domino effect for the teams that missed out on Vesey. Those looking for scoring help may now try to acquire someone in free agency or by making a trade prior to training camp.

With Toronto stocked with forward prospects, the reaction of GM Lou Lamoniello may be to use the pro contract that was being reserved for the Hobey Baker winner to sign a backup goaltender.

Veteran netminder Jhonas Enroth is still unsigned and would necessitate a one-year pro contract and not a tryout contract.

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