The potential for Kevin Hayes was always evident. Standing at 6’5, Hayes already had a clear advantage over his opponents. His ability to play the center ice position, along with the wing, makes him even more valuable.
However, Hayes hit a lull in his second season with the New York Rangers. Hayes scored just 14 goals and 22 assists, totaling nine points less than in his rookie season.
That year ended with Hayes being benched in the playoffs for Tanner Glass, as the New York Rangers were eliminated by the Pittsburgh Penguins in five games.
Bouncing Back
Hayes signed a bridge deal with the New York Rangers in July of 2016, making $5.