Why Jimmy Vesey’s first goal for the Rangers organization speaks volumes about his talent

Vesey with media (NYR)

Vesey with media (NYR)

The Rangers prospects may have lost in overtime in their Traverse City opener, but Jimmy Vesey made an immediate impression. His first ever goal for the Rangers organization highlighted some of the factors as to why Jeff Gorton went after him.

Watch Vesey Score

As you can see, Vesey wisely finds an open area of ice and then has the wherewithal to deflect a harmless shot for a goal. Pretty sweet!

Now watch it from a different angle and take in just how deftly he deflects the puck and raises his leg at the same time.

When you factor in this was his first ever game for the organization, and the fact that all eyes are on him…it makes it even more remarkable.

The Art of Shot Deflections

Ben Shpigel of the NY Times eloquently wrote in 2012 that stopping a deflected shot is like trying to play whack-a-mole with a toothbrush. Martin Brodeur went as far to say, “Where it goes, who knows…you just hope it hits you.”

Hall of Famer, Joe Nieuwendyk said there is a “certain level of bravery to it.” Former Rangers, now Lightning center Brian Boyle said, “Anyone can do it, but not anyone can do it.”

Deflecting a shot takes guts and skill. I believe it is something that many hockey fans take for granted, and they shouldn’t. For me, I think that’s a great first goal for Jimmy Vesey that should speak to his overall hockey ability. It may be one game, but he’s living up to the hype early.

Drury Talks Vesey and More

 

Vesey On His First Game

Anthony Scultore has been covering the New York Rangers and the NHL since 2014. His work also appears at... More about Anthony Scultore

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