Jimmy Hayes, a winger whose final pro season in 2018-19 was spent with the Pittsburgh Penguins organization, has died, according to his alma mater, Boston College, and multiple other reports. He was 31.
There has been no cause of death reported. He leaves behind a wife, Kristen, and two young sons. His younger brother Kevin plays for the Philadelphia Flyers.
Jimmy Hayes was in training camp with the Penguins after signing a two-way contract with them in July 2018. He played 72 games with American Hockey League affiliate Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, finishing with 15 goals, 30 points.
A Boston area native, Hayes played three seasons at Boston College. He was drafted in the second round by Toronto in 2008. In 334 NHL games with Chicago, Florida, Boston and New Jersey, he had 54 goals, 109 points.
PHN and National Hockey Now extend condolences to his family and friends.
Tributes are rolling on Twitter, such as
Boston College Hockey is heartbroken over the passing of Jimmy Hayes. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the entire Hayes family. pic.twitter.com/2nL59U6Fgs
We are absolutely gutted by the devastating loss of our dear friend Jimmy Hayes. Jimmy was a sweetheart who lit up every room he entered and always had a smile on his face. He will be dearly missed by all. We extend our most heartfelt sympathies to his family.
