Phil Kessel Shocks Vancouver Canucks Fans With His New Looks
On Tuesday evening, the Canucks revealed that veteran free agent forward Phil Kessel will be joining the organization by practicing with the team's AHL affiliate club in Abbotsford, British Columbia this week. Kessel, who played in all 82 games with the Vegas Golden Knights last season, recorded 14 goals and 22 assists. Although he only played four playoff games, the Knights went on to win their first-ever Stanley Cup, marking Kessel's third championship in his career.
Kessel Spotted In Vancouver And Fans Are Shocked With His Looks
Kessel has been inactive since then, and Canucks GM Patrik Allvin confirmed his arrival in Vancouver, prompting some fans to head to the local airport in hopes of catching a glimpse of him.
One fan succeeded, and when they posted a picture of the free agent on social media, fans were surprised by Kessel's appearance, despite his absence from the ice since the start of the 2023-24 season.
Indeed, in the picture taken at the airport's baggage claim, Kessel appears to be in good shape and fit.
Selected fifth overall by the Boston Bruins in 2006, Kessel has played for the Toronto Maple Leafs, Pittsburgh Penguins, Arizona Coyotes, and Golden Knights, accumulating 413 goals and 579 assists over 1,286 games.
By joining the Canucks, Kessel not only has a chance at winning a fourth Stanley Cup but also reunites with former coach Rick Tocchet. The two worked together for two seasons with the Arizona Coyotes after previously spending time together in Pittsburgh.
The Canucks have been active in assembling the best possible lineup for a deep Stanley Cup run. In separate trades with the Calgary Flames, Vancouver acquired defenseman Nikita Zadorov and made a blockbuster move to obtain forward Elias Lindholm. Adding Kessel, who appears to be in shape, provides the Canucks with another option in the winger core and adds valuable experience for a potential Cup run.
This is an exciting opportunity for Kessel, who holds the NHL's iron man streak with 1,064 consecutive regular-season games played, to pursue another championship before retiring.
Do you think Phil Kessel will play in the NHL?
| POLL | ||
14 FEVRIER | 679 ANSWERS Phil Kessel Shocks Vancouver Canucks Fans With His New Looks Do you think Phil Kessel will play in the NHL? | ||
| Yes | 555 | 81.7 % |
| No | 124 | 18.3 % |
| List of polls | ||
