In Photos: Kristen, widow of NHL star Jimmy Hayes, flaunts her baby bump at wedding with her new husband, Evan

On Wednesday, Kristen Hayes, widow of the late NHL star Jimmy Hayes, shared a post on Instagram announcing her marriage to Evan Crosby. Hayes and Crosby, expecting a child together, chose to marry before the baby’s arrival and planned their summer move.

In her Instagram post, Hayes expressed gratitude for the love and support she got:

"There’s all kinds of love in this world, but never the same love twice” 5.26.24 married my best friend . Ev and I followed our hearts, wanting to be married before the baby arrives, and before we move our crew this summer."

"In 17 short days we pulled together the most special, intimate, emotional and joyful celebration. We are overwhelmed with gratitude for the love that filled the room and our hearts that night. God is Good."

The wedding, organized in just 17 days, was an emotional and special event. Hayes wore a plain white gown, while Crosby donned a black formal suit with a white shirt. Throughout her wedding, Hayes proudly showed her baby bump. Kristen and Jimmy Hayes' sons, Mac and Beau, were also present.

Reason for Jimmy Hayes' death and his family's views on his addiction

Jimmy Hayes died at the age of 31 years in August 2021, at his home in Milton, Massachusetts. The cause of his death was acute intoxication due to the combined effects of fentanyl and cocaine, confirmed by the state medical examiner.

Kristen Hayes was shocked by the toxicology report. She got the news while traveling to a tribute event for Jimmy.

“I was so certain that it had nothing to do with drugs. I really thought it was a heart attack or anything that wasn’t that [drugs] ... It didn’t make any sense, so it was hard," Kristen said (via bostonglobe.com).

"I was hoping to get a different phone call when they called. I was hoping to get some clarity and I was shocked to hear that it was that ... He never showed any signs of a struggle at home."

Kevin Hayes, Jimmy Hayes' younger brother and a player for the St. Louis Blues, said in October 2021 (nbcboston.com):

“I don’t think anyone will fill my brother’s role as a dad or a parent, We’ll all try our hardest. Beau and Mac are really lucky that, even though it’s a sucky situation, they’re really lucky for all the support system they do have.”

At Jimmy's funeral, Kristen Hayes spoke of his "heart of gold" and his role as a loving father to their sons. She hopes that through Jimmy's story, she will be able to reach out to others struggling with similar issues.