As the NHL approaches the All-Star break, Phil Kessel’s search for an NHL team continues to captivate fans and insiders alike. Despite his impressive three-time Cup-winning record, Kessel finds himself without a contract, leaving his future hanging in the balance. However, a recent revelation by insider Pierre LeBrun offers a glimmer of hope, as Kessel remains actively engaged with a couple of interested teams.
LeBrun, speaking on TSN’s Insider Trading, unveiled Kessel’s unwavering determination to secure a spot in the NHL:
“He still absolutely hopes to catch on with an NHL team. He has not given up hope. His camp has been in contact with a couple of teams.”
This insight sheds light on Kessel’s relentless efforts to find a new home in the league.
INSIDER TRADING…
– Latest on international hockey talks
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What sets Kessel’s situation apart?
It is the possibility that some teams may request him to skate with them before making a final decision. LeBrun explains,
“One of the things that are in consideration here is that because he hasn’t played since last year, there might be a team or two that says, ‘Come and skate with us for a bit so we can take a look at you and see where things are.’”
This intriguing twist adds suspense to Kessel’s journey back to the ice.
Drawing parallels to recent signings like Zach Parise and Corey Perry, who secured contracts after extended periods without deals, LeBrun speculates on a similar outcome for Kessel before the March 8 deadline. As Kessel continues to stay ready by hitting the ice, the hockey world eagerly awaits to see if he can achieve a hat-trick of late-season signings and find a well-deserved home in the NHL once again.
Phil Kessel Emerges as Key Playoff Addition: Teams Eyeing Him for 2024 NHL Playoffs
As the 2024 NHL playoffs approach, the prospect of signing Phil Kessel gains immense momentum among teams in need of postseason depth. The three-time Stanley Cup champion, now a free agent, is eager to extend his storied career on the biggest stage of all.
A potential reunion with the Toronto Maple Leafs seems logical, as Kessel, though no longer the top-line goal-scorer he once was, could inject valuable depth scoring from the third line. Meanwhile, the Vegas Golden Knights, grappling with injuries, eye Kessel as a solution to compensate for the offensive void left by Jack Eichel’s absence.
The Florida Panthers, yearning for another deep playoff run, could greatly benefit from Kessel’s experience and scoring prowess on the third or fourth line. Moreover, the Edmonton Oilers, in search of more production from their bottom six, see Kessel as an immediate offensive boost.
Similarly, the Colorado Avalanche, hungry to amplify their scoring, view Phil Kessel as a game-changing asset for a stronger playoff run. With the trade deadline looming, they regard Kessel as an experienced reinforcement to bolster their aspirations for playoff success.
Editors Note
As teams strategically position themselves for the upcoming playoffs, the allure of Phil Kessel’s skill set and experience becomes increasingly difficult to ignore. Will he join a contender and make a significant impact in the quest for the ultimate prize? Only time will tell, as the NHL’s deadline day approaches with electrifying anticipation.
