Veteran forward Phil Kessel reportedly wants an NHL return; willing to take any role possible

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Tom Banks
September 25, 2024 (9:24 PM)

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Phil Kessel didn't play in the NHL last season, but according to reports, the veteran forward is still wanting one last shot in the league.

This off-season, we've seen many veterans sign PTO's around the league, and while they don't always result in contracts, they are a good way to give experienced players good looks into new teams in the league. Shockingly, one player that hasn't gotten a PTO this off-season is Phil Kessel, who was last seen with the Vegas Golden Knights in 2022/23, with the veteran not finding an opportunity in the league last season.

According to TSN's Pierre LeBrun, he hasn't given up hope of an NHL return however, with the 36-year old revealing that he's willing to give up the iron man streak and even sign a PTO to find a new role in the NHL.

"Speaking of guys on the sidelines, not ready to retire yet, how about Phil Kessel? We mentioned him a few times last year. He didn't play in the NHL. He wanted to. He is willing, still, to try and help an NHL team. He's willing to sign a PTO if the fit is right."

In his last full campaign in the NHL, Kessel tallied a solid 14 goals and 36 points with the Golden Knights, and although he didn't play a role in their Stanley Cup victory, his experience would have been invaluable to that team. With training camp and the pre-season nearing an end, most teams are finalizing their rosters, but with Kessel showing he's able to play a substantial amount of games and still score the puck, he would be an interesting addition for many teams.

Sure, he lacks effort on the defensive end, but as a bottom-six forward that can still light the lamp, there are many worse options currently on NHL teams, so now we will wait and see if an NHL team out there is willing to take another chance on Phil the Thrill before his career comes to an end.

Source: Blade of Steel
Phil Kessel not giving up, willing to make concessions to get back to the NHL