Predators changed deadline plans thinking Vesey would sign with them

The Nashville Predators say they formed their trade deadline strategy around the assumption that highly touted prospect Jimmy Vesey would sign a contract with them.

"We did alter our trade deadline plans based on the information that he we had," assistant general manager Paul Fenton told Sportsnet 590 The FAN on Tuesday.

Vesey spurned the Predators on Monday night, informing Nashville he would not sign with the club and would instead opt for unrestricted free agency on Aug. 15.

General manager David Poile said Monday that Vesey repeatedly told the Predators organization that he intended to sign with them.

Fenton echoed that claim Tuesday, adding that the 22-year-old Harvard product was promised a top-nine role and a playoff roster spot with Nashville this season.

The executive said Vesey's camp gave no reason for the change of heart, other than the opportunity to test free agency.

Fenton also reiterated Poile's sentiment that the Predators haven't given up on trying to sign Vesey. The assistant GM said they will continue to pursue a meeting with the player, his family, and his advisor, an opportunity they haven't yet been granted.

Vesey notched 24 goals and 22 assists in 33 games during his senior season with the Crimson. The Predators drafted him 66th overall in 2012.