Monday marked a heartbreaking day in the hockey world, as former NHLer Jimmy Hayes passed away at the age of 31. A veteran of 334 games between Chicago, Florida, Boston and New Jersey, the Dorchester, Massachusetts native became a popular figure in the hockey world over the years and came from a family that produced its shared of NHLers. His brother Kevin is one of the Philadelphia Flyers’ top forwards and as it turns out, some of his older family members made a mark in the league as well.
New Jersey Devils general manager Tom Fitzgerald was a cousin of Hayes’ and had some beautiful words to share about him following the news of his passing. In addition to Fitzgerald, Keith, Matthew and Brady Tkachuk were also cousins of Jimmy’s.
Hayes was just beginning a new chapter of his life, hosting the ‘Missin Curfew’ podcast with fellow NHLers Shane O’Brien and Scottie Upshall. He recently became a father to two-year-old Beau and three-month-old Mac. He leaves behind wife Krisitna as well.
A devastating loss that will not soon be forgotten. You will be missed, Jimmy.
(H/T Matt Porter)
