New York Rangers: Did Jimmy Vesey get his much needed offensive jumpstart?
Jimmy Vesey’s slow offensive start to the season has been well-documented. He and the New York Rangers hope that his two-goal game against the Bruins can be the kick-start he needs to get his game moving in the right direction.
New York Rangers winger Jimmy Vesey hasn’t lived up to expectations so far this season. The sophomore slump had claimed another victim, as it does so many high-profile second-year players. However, things may be turning around for the former Boston College product.
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The difference a year makes
In his rookie season, Vesey took the league by storm. He recorded nine points, including six goals, in his first 10 games with the New York Rangers. All of this while primarily playing a secondary role in what was a well-balanced forward lineup. This year, with several lineup flaws and questions marks, he hasn’t had the same early-season impact.
Through the first month of this season, Vesey’s role on the team varied often. For long stretches, he played in the Rangers’ top-six despite doing very little to earn that spot. His offensive acumen of last season seemingly vanished, and his defense leaves much to be desired.
After the Rangers’ first 16 games, Vesey’s underwhelming start resulted in just three points (two goals). Then, against his hometown team, the Boston Bruins, everything started to click. With the Rangers playing prime time hockey, Vesey’s offensive game came to life with a two-goal performance. His first goal broke a 1-1 tie, and his second wound up being the game-winner.
Vesey doubled his season goal scoring in one game, and shades of the player from last season were resurrected. Similarly, the blueprint for future success was on full display for the 24-year old winger.
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Playing to his strengths
Far too often Vesey has played a game that doesn’t fit his strengths. He has been asked to drive play and perform against the opponents’ top competition. Neither of these scenarios is where the budding power-forward has shined the brightest.
Where Vesey’s game really becomes a difference maker is when he’s scoring ugly goals. That phrase is often used to describe unskilled players, however, Vesey is not of that mold. His knack for the net, and ability to convert on rebound opportunities is what made him a Hobey Baker award winner during his days playing collegiate hockey.
Both goals that Vesey scored against the Bruins came from within close, hovering in Tuukka Rask’s goal crease. Those goals came just 29 seconds apart, a testament to his effectiveness when playing to his strengths.
Now, the Rangers are suddenly sharing the top spot in the Metropolitan division. They have been aided by an NHL best six-game win-streak and a wealth of offense. The final step to becoming a true contender could be consistent secondary scoring.
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Jimmy Vesey must use his breakout effort against Boston as a launching pad for future success. Despite a minor setback when he took a skate to the mouth against Edmonton, Vesey’s north-south game is still in full effect. Hopefully, the best is yet to come, and Jimmy Vesey makes the Rangers’ decision to extend his contract at the end of the season that much easier.