Jimmy Vesey is currently being evaluated for a lower-body injury sustained during New York Rangers practice on Sunday. Head coach Peter Laviolette mentioned that the injury seemed “somewhat harmless” at first, but the fact that it was a non-contact injury is concerning. Vesey was hurt during a drill, left the ice limping, and did not return to practice.
Adam Edstrom filled in for Vesey on the fourth line for the remainder of practice. Edstrom, who had already been rotating in with Sam Carrick and Matt Rempe, is part of a potential towering fourth line for the Rangers. Should Vesey miss time, Edstrom and Rempe—standing at 6’7″ and 6’8″ respectively—could form an imposing presence alongside the rugged Carrick, who is 6 feet tall and weighs 205 pounds.
Edstrom has been impressive in the preseason, scoring two goals and one assist in two games, including a game-winner against the Islanders. He also scored three goals in two rookie games before the preseason started. Meanwhile, Vesey has yet to score in his two preseason appearances, and both Carrick and Rempe are scoreless in one game each.
As of now, it’s too early to determine how long Vesey might be out, but his absence could open opportunities for players like Edstrom and Rempe to step up.
Rangers await medical word on injured forward Jimmy Vesey
In his second stint with the New York Rangers, Jimmy Vesey has proven to be a versatile and valuable bottom-six forward over the past two seasons. Last season, he recorded 26 points (13 goals, 13 assists) in 80 games, while in the 2022-23 season, he tallied 25 points (11 goals, 14 assists) in 81 games. His consistent production and ability to contribute in various roles have made him an important depth piece for the Rangers.
Vesey’s flexibility was showcased last season when he stepped up to the top-six forward group after Blake Wheeler sustained a knee injury in February. Vesey played alongside Mika Zibanejad and Chris Kreider, holding his own on a high-profile line before moving back to his usual bottom-six role after the Rangers acquired Jack Roslovic before the trade deadline.
In the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs, Vesey appeared in 12 of the Rangers’ 16 games, registering three points (one goal, two assists). His playoff run was cut short when he sustained a separated shoulder in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference Final against the Florida Panthers. Despite the injury, Vesey’s ability to adjust to different roles has been a key asset for New York.
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