Kevin Hayes' agent confirms college star headed for unrestricted free agency
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That standout Boston College forward Kevin Hayes, a 2010 first-round pick of the Chicago Blackhawks, was unlikely to sign with the club has been a poorly kept secret in the hockey world for several months.
On Tuesday, his agent Robert Murray all but confirmed that Hayes, 22, intends on hitting the open market in just over two weeks time.
"We're likely going to wait until Aug. 16 and see where things are at that point," Murray told Scott Powers of ESPN Chicago. "It's absolutely nothing against the Blackhawks. We just feel this gives Kevin some options.
"This has been a difficult decision for Kevin. He's identified himself with the Blackhawks. He was drafted by them. His brother [Jimmy] played for them. But after his college career, he had a chance to step back and look at everything."
Hayes scored 27 goals and was second among all NCAA players with 65 points in his senior season with Eagles. Because Hayes remained a "bona fide college student" through graduation, the Blackhawks' exclusive negotiating rights expire following August 15 per article 8.6(c)(i) of the 2013 NHL/NHLPA collective bargaining agreement.