David Poile says Predators 'have a spot' for Jimmy Vesey

With the chance highly-touted prospect Jimmy Vesey could become a free agent in April after his senior season at Harvard ends, it appears the Nashville Predators are ready to add him to their roster as soon as possible.

"We have a spot for him," general manager David Poile told ESPN Radio in an interview Tuesday, suggesting he could start on a line with Ryan Johansen. The 22-year-old was drafted by the Predators in the third round of the 2012 draft, and was a finalist for the Hobey Baker Award last season.

It was reported in October that a number of teams were "lining up" to join the Vesey sweepstakes if he elected not to sign with the Predators.

The Toronto Maple Leafs are widely considered to be the favorites to sign the winger if he elects for free agency. The Maple Leafs hired his father Jim as a scout during the offseason and drafted his younger brother Nathan in the sixth round of the 2014 draft.

Vesey currently leads his team with 33 points in 20 games this season.