Report: Jimmy Vesey will choose free agency over Predators

Instead of signing with the Nashville Predators, prospect Jimmy Vesey will choose to become an unrestricted free agent on August 15, according to TSN’s Bob McKenzie.

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Representatives of Predators prospect Jimmy Vesey have informed the team that he will be exercising his right to test unrestricted free agency, reports TSN’s Bob McKenzie.

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Vesey, who concluded his four-year NCAA career at Harvard on Friday, was drafted by Nashville in the third round of the 2012 draft.

In four years with the Crimson, Vesey recorded 80 goals and 64 assists. The Hobey Baker candidate led the NCAA in goals during the 2014-15 season with 32.

According to Article 8.6 (iii) of the collective bargaining agreement, “If a Player drafted at age 18 or 19, who had received a Bona Fide Offer in accordance with Section 8.6(a)(ii) above, becomes a bona fide college student prior to the second June 1 following his selection in the Entry Draft and remains a bona fide college student through the graduation of his college class, his drafting Club shall retain the exclusive rights of negotiation for his services through and including the August 15 following the graduation of his college class.”

Predators general manager David Poile was in attendance for Harvard’s 4–1 loss to Boston College in opening round of the NCAA tournament.

On Saturday, Nashville released a statement saying they planned to meet with Vesey to discuss his future, though on Monday Poile claimed he was not allowed to do so. 

Poile: "I clearly believe Jimmy has received bad advice and bad counseling." #Preds

— Brooks Bratten 🍪 (@brooksbratten) March 29, 2016

The 22-year-old forward is set to become an unrestricted free agent on August 15 and be able to sign with any team.