Phil Kessel may be closing in on an NHL return, close to signing with western conference team
For the first time this season, we have concrete news about the return of a three-time Stanley Cup champion to the NHL. Phil Kessel has not played since becoming a free agent after the Vegas Golden Knights won its first Stanley Cup last year.
According to Insider Rick Dhaliwal, Kessel has flown to Vancouver to meet with the Canucks tonight. That presumably includes executive and players.
Kessel has been linked to the Vancouver Canucks for a few weeks now. Vancouver head coach Rick Tocchet was asked about him a couple of days ago and indicated he'd be happy to have him join the team. The two have crossed paths before when both employed by the Pittsburgh Penguins, and again with the Arizona Coyotes.
Just how much Kessel has left in the tank remains to be seen. The 36-year-old was still able to contribute offensively to the Golden Knights in 2022-23, scoring 14 goals and 36 points in 82 games. He should be able to add some depth to Vancouver, a team having a surprisingly good season and looking to make a playoff run as soon as possible.
Kessel will work out in Abbotsford this week as well. All signs point to him signing.
| POLL | ||
Do you think this is where Kessel will sign? | ||
| Yes | 104 | 75.9 % |
| No | 18 | 13.1 % |
| Not sure | 15 | 10.9 % |
| List of polls | ||
