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Jimmy Vesey chose Rangers over eight other teams, 'made a connection.'
Images Courtesy of Keystone Press

Jimmy Vesey chose Rangers over eight other teams, 'made a connection.'

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Jimmy Vesey had his fair share of suitors this season, but has absolutely no second thoughts about the team he eventually chose.

The NHL's most highly touted free agent prospect the media Friday night after inking a new two-year entry level contract with the New York Rangers. 

"I am very pleased to be a part of the Rangers organiziation," Vesey said. "Based on our talks I think New York was the right fit."

The 2016 Hobey Baker award winner strongly considered eight teams, tweeted the The Associated Press' Stephen Whyno. Ultimately, he chose to play in the Big Apple because he believes that he can become an everyday NHLer with the Rangers.

The Rangers "don't expect me to come in and be a savior," Vesey said. "I just thought that New York was somewhere that I could play and hopefully stick in the NHL," he added.

"No guarantees," Vesey said. "But I feel New York is somewhere I can plug in right away. But I'm going to have to put in the work."

Rangers' GM Jeff Gorton was ecstatic when he learned of the news that the NCAA's top man had decided to join his team. It was music to Gorton's ears, as the competition was fierce when vying for his services. The Buffalo Sabres, Boston Bruins, Chicago Blackhawks, New Jersey Devils, New York Islanders, Pittsburgh Penguins, and Toronto Maple Leafs, along with the Rangers, were all potential landing spots.

"He has the ability to score, make plays," Gorton said. "I think he can come in and play. We're very happy today. We think we have some good youth and this helps with that.

"(Vesey's) a pretty proud guy, very confident in his ability. I think he seen an opportunity to play. (I) felt we made a connection."

One of the main selling points for the 23-year old came after he spoke to former Rangers forward Chris Drury.

"Kevin Hayes definitely had a big impact & really impressed with Chris Drury, someone I respect a lot what for he’s done in his career."

The Harvard graduate recorded 56 goals and added 48 assists in 70 games, a stellar average of 0.8 goals and 1.49 points per contest. He also captured a bronze medal as a member of USA's World Championship in May.

Listed as 6'2/ 195 pounds, his combination of size and speed made him a very desirable asset to many teams across the league. 

It seem Vesey was in a New York state of mind the whole time.

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Source: The Associated Press