It’s time for another edition of NHL rumours. We’re a week into training camps, but there’s plenty to talk about on the hot stove. Teams are working on their rosters, but other players are looking for an opportunity to latch onto an NHL roster. Veterans looking for a roster spot have taken player tryout contracts. However, others are still biding their time. This edition of NHL rumours looks at one Stanley Cup champion looking to crack a roster.
All NHL rumours come from the original source and are subject to change.
NHL Rumours
Veteran NHLer Seeking Roster Spot
Rumour: On the latest edition of Insider Trading on TSN, Pierre LeBrun said that Phil Kessel isn’t retired. The insider added that Kessel is looking for a PTO if the circumstances are right.
INSIDER TRADING…
– Shesterkin camp looks to reset goalie market
– Sens waiting to start Ullmark extension talks
– Holland ready for next challenge
– Kessel seeking PTO; still eager to play
– Expansion not on agenda for next BOG meetingMORE: https://t.co/n11mVV6DTL pic.twitter.com/EAGWRYrnaG
— TSN Hockey (@TSNHockey) September 24, 2024
Analysis: Kessel is the all-time and current iron man streak holder at 1,064 games in a row. His last game played was on April 24, 2023, but his streak is still active since it’s regular-season games. He last played in the NHL with the Vegas Golden Knights and won a Stanley Cup.
However, The Madison, Wisconsin native wants a chance to end his storied career on his own terms. According to LeBrun, Kessel doesn’t mind proving himself on a tryout agreement. The 36-year-old isn’t “begging for a job,” but also feels that he can contribute to a roster.
Some thought Kessel would latch onto the Arizona Coyotes in their final season in the desert. He was skating with them before training camps, but a deal never materialized.
Just Looking for an Opportunity
Kessel’s agent, Wade Arnott, said their camp wanted to see how things played out before making a push for a roster spot. According to Arnott, a couple of teams have tried to stay in touch with Kessel while things shake out early in training camps.
One thing that people thought would be an issue was continuing the iron man streak. However, LeBrun reported that doesn’t seem to be an issue. Kessel seems to be content with just making an NHL roster and accepting whatever role is given to him.
The streak is a great accomplishment, but Kessel knows that it won’t last forever. Teams may been concerned about that being a factor. However, Kessel seemingly just wants to play hockey at the NHL level.
Where Could Kessel End up?
Kessel is a three-time Stanley Cup champion as he’s won championships with the Pittsburgh Penguins and the Golden Knights. He came bring a load of experience to a roster and maybe add some scoring touch if needed.
A team like the Columbus Blue Jackets may have been in the mix. However, they decided to go with James van Riemsdyk as a veteran option.
Injuries also happen during training camps and in the early part of the season. Keseel could find his way onto a roster if someone gets hurt and a club needs an experienced option.
Cost shouldn’t be a concern as Kessel will probably come in as a low-cost option. If he can roll back the years, it could be a smart buy.
Main photo by: Stephen R. Sylvanie-Imagn Images
