The Phil Kessel Sweepstakes Has Been Narrowed Down To Two Teams

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Graham Montgomery
October 16, 2023 (10:46 PM)

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Phil Kessel is undeniably an NHL legend. The 36-year-old has missed the beginning of the season for the first time in his career as he does not have a contract but he is still interested in playing. Reportedly, two teams are interested in the veteran forward.

Kessel Sweepstakes Down To Two Teams

NHL insider David Pagnotta reported today on the 4th Period Podcast that two teams are still vying for Kessel's services.

Kessel has two legitimate options right now that are both contingent on those teams moving out money before bringing him in. My understanding is Kessel is healthy and ready to join a team as soon as a deal can be ironed out. Unfortunately, for him, he has to play the waiting game.

Kessel, 36, is coming off a season in which he set the NHL record for longest iron man streak for consecutive games played. However, while his Vegas Golden Knights won the Stanley Cup, he played just four games on their playoff run. He was a healthy scratch for their other games.

Kessel Close To Major Milestones

Kessel scored just 36 points last year in the full 82 game season, his lowest total in a full season, and the second lowest point total for a single season in his career period, trailing only his rookie campaign.

While he clearly is not as effective as he once was, Kessel has proven that he can still give teams valuable minutes. He currently sits 14 games away from having played 1300 in his career and he is just 8 points shy of 1000. Both marks would be major milestones for the three time Stanley Cup champion. If it is true that there are two teams interested in his services, then it should be relatively easy for Kessel to hit both these marks.