Photo Credit: AP Photo/Tom Mihalek
On Monday August 23rd, the hockey community was left stunned by the sudden passing of former NHL player, Jimmy Hayes. The next 48 hours saw an outpouring of memories and stories from family, teammates, friends, and opponents for the player affectionately nicknamed “Broadway”. The Flyers family was especially affected by this loss through his brother Kevin Hayes and his co-host on his podcast Missin’ Curfew, former Flyer: Scottie Upshall.
Jimmy hailed from a prominent New England hockey family that included the Hayes, the Fitzgeralds, and the Tkachuks. He was drafted in the second round by the Toronto Maple Leafs and committed to playing hockey at Boston College. In 2010, he was part of the team, along with his brother Kevin, that won the NCAA National Championship. Hayes made his NHL debut with the Chicago Blackhawks after they acquired him from Toronto. Kevin and Jimmy almost reunited in Chicago but the team lost Kevin’s rights after they did not agree to an entry level contract. Jimmy would spend the next 8 seasons split between the NHL and AHL, playing for 4 different NHL franchises. During this time he would face off against his brother numerous times when Kevin was a member of the New York Rangers.
The highlight of Jimmy’s NHL career was suiting up for his hometown Boston Bruins for over 130 games. Many have described the dream of Massachusetts’ hockey players as being able to achieve just that. In numerous tribute posts, he was described as an amazing addition to a locker room and a welcoming presence to new players. He was someone who made his teammates laugh and helped them enjoy the game of hockey. Having listened to his podcast, it was evident that he had a knack for storytelling and a great sense of humor.
He leaves behind his wife Kristen, two sons Beau and Mac, and many grieving family members and friends. The staff at Flyers Nitty Gritty extend their condolences and deepest sympathy to all who are reeling from his tragic passing. Broadway will certainly not be forgotten, and here is a message from Kevin Hayes via an Instagram post he made yesterday:
From all of us here at Flyers Nitty Gritty, our hearts, thoughts and prayers remain with the Hayes family during this difficult time.
