Phil the thrill has found a new home
PUBLICATION
Ryan Hall
February 14, 2024 (6:49 PM)
Photo credit: Pensburgh
Out of all the unrestricted free agents that are still available, Phil Kessel still strikes me as a player that should be playing in the NHL today.
After winning the Stanley Cup with the Vegas Golden Knights his third of his career, it seemed that no one in the NHL was interested in signing him whether it's due to his age or he is slowing down, and it will become difficult to keep pace.
It's clear that the Vancouver Canucks feel that he may have a place on their roster as they continue to put their chips in the middle and go all in for the Stanley Cup this year.
The 36 year old who was drafted by the Boston Bruins in 2006, in the first round 5th overall has quite the resume that would help the Canucks in their quest to win the cup this year.
Having played 1286 games, he has scored 413 goals with 570 assists for 992 points.
Known for his explosive speed and his scoring touch, it's safe to say that some of those skills have been diminished overtime.
But even at 35 years old at the time, Kessel played all 82 games with the Vegas Golden Knights and scored fourteen goals with 22 assists for 36 points and had thirty penalty minutes.
He would certainly bolster their power play and be a great bottom 6 forward who could give them depth scoring as they look to augment their team.
For the time being, he is currently working out in Abbotsford BC and will continue to discuss contract negotiations with the Canucks as he has a direct tie with Jim Rutherford the former general manager of his former team, the Pittsburgh Penguins.
Previously on NYRangersInsider
POLL |
FEVRIER 14 | 228 ANSWERS Phil the thrill has found a new home Would you consider signing Phil Kessel on the Rangers? |
Yes | 80 | 35.1 % |
No | 148 | 64.9 % |
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