Death Of Hockey Player Jimmy Hayes
The hockey world was shocked and saddened by the sudden passing of professional player Jimmy Hayes on August 23, 2021. The 31-year-old American forward was found dead in his home in Massachusetts, leaving behind a wife and two young children.
Early Life and Career
Jimmy Hayes was born on November 21, 1989 in Dorchester, Massachusetts. He grew up playing hockey with his three brothers and attended Catholic Memorial High School. After graduating, he went on to play college hockey at Boston College where he won two national championships.
In 2008, Hayes was drafted by the Toronto Maple Leafs in the second round, 60th overall. However, he never played for the Leafs and was eventually traded to the Chicago Blackhawks in 2010.
Professional Career
Hayes made his NHL debut on December 30, 2011 for the Blackhawks and scored his first goal against the Columbus Blue Jackets in February 2012. He played a total of 43 games for the Blackhawks before being traded to the Florida Panthers in November 2013.
Hayes spent two seasons with the Panthers, playing in 125 games and scoring 30 points. In July 2015, he was traded to the Boston Bruins but was later waived and sent to the Bruins' AHL affiliate team, the Providence Bruins.
Hayes signed with the New Jersey Devils in 2018 and played in 33 games for the team before being traded to the Pittsburgh Penguins in February 2019. However, he never played for the Penguins and was eventually waived and sent to their AHL affiliate team, the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins.
Personal Life
Off the ice, Jimmy Hayes was known for his outgoing personality and close relationship with his family. He married his wife, Kristen, in 2016 and the couple had two children together, Beau and Mac.
Hayes was also involved in various charitable causes throughout his career, including the Boston College Campus School and the Jimmy Fund.
Cause of Death
The exact cause of Jimmy Hayes' death has not been officially released, but it is suspected to be related to a medical emergency. The NHL community has mourned his passing, with many former teammates and coaches expressing their condolences on social media.
The New Jersey Devils released a statement on Twitter, saying "We are all incredibly saddened to learn of the passing of Jimmy Hayes. His pleasant personality and infectious smile were among the many attributes that made him a beloved member of the New Jersey Devils organization."
Remembering Jimmy Hayes
While Jimmy Hayes' passing is a tragic loss for the hockey community, he will be remembered for his infectious personality both on and off the ice. Former Boston College head coach Jerry York said, "Jimmy was the glue that held every team together. He had an infectious personality and a heart of gold."
Hayes' former Blackhawks teammate, Patrick Kane, tweeted, "So sad to hear about the passing of Jimmy Hayes. Great teammate and person taken away too soon. Thoughts and prayers to his family and friends."
The NHL honored Hayes with a moment of silence before a game between the New York Islanders and the Tampa Bay Lightning on August 24, 2021.
Rest in peace, Jimmy Hayes.
