Bobby Bevilacqua

Photo courtesy of MSG Photos.

There’s no denying the talent that Kevin Hayes possesses.

After deciding not to sign with Chicago, who made him the 24th overall selection in the 2010 draft, Hayes made his way to New York City, earning an opening day roster spot and making his NHL debut in the third game of the season. From that moment on, learning a new position on the fly, Hayes cemented himself into the lineup, improving with each passing game.

Hayes wound up centering the third line with an always-rotating cast of wingers. Despite that, he would lead the Rangers in scoring over the past few months of the season, and carried that success into the playoffs. His 45 points (17-28-45) were fifth amongst all NHL rookies, and he was actually tied with Joe Thornton and Tyler Seguin for the most primary assists that year, with 21. Quite good company.

He’s got silky smooth hands, fantastic vision, great passing skills, and the ability to score some highlight reel goals when needed. An impressive rookie season and a solid playoffs showed that. Read the rest of this entry →