According to Vancouver Canucks official Rick Dhaliwal, the team is reportedly considering adding veteran forward Phil Kessel as part of their Stanley Cup push.
For those who ask, #Canucks Still poking at UFA Phil Kessel.
The program will give you the latest information about Kessel.@donnie_dhali
10 a.m. to noon.
check tv
— Rick Dhaliwal (@DhaliwalSports) February 8, 2024
Kessel and other unrestricted free agents will be eligible for the playoffs if signed by the March 8 trade deadline.
“I want to play,” Kessel said. Sportsnet interview last week. “I have aspirations. I still love playing the game.
He has yet to play a game in the 2023-24 NHL season, but signing a contract would continue Kessel’s Ironman streak. As far as his NHL record goes, he can’t miss a game he’s not signed to play.
“Obviously, I don’t feel old,” Kessel said in an interview with Sportsnet. “So, I enjoy playing every game and I’m looking forward to continuing my career next year and wherever I am.”
Kessel played two seasons with the Arizona Coyotes under Canucks head coach Rick Tocchet. Mr. Tocchet also served as Mr. Kessel’s assistant coach for two years with the Pittsburgh Penguins, where he won two Stanley Cups.
Kessel played in 82 regular season games with the Las Vegas Golden Knights last season, averaging 14 goals and 36 points while averaging less than 13 minutes per game. If he joins the Canucks, he will likely play the bottom six minutes with significant time on the power play, similar to how he played last year with the Golden Knights.
Kessel appeared in just four postseason games last season, when the Golden Knights made it to the Stanley Cup. He had two assists in the playoffs.
One thing the Canucks lineup lacks is championship pedigree. He is one of only two players on the roster with a Stanley Cup ring. The addition of Kessel, a three-time Cup champion, brings another seasoned veteran to the locker room who knows what it takes to win.
The Canucks won’t be the first team to add a veteran midseason this year.Signs with Colorado Avalanche zach paris The Edmonton Oilers acquired Corey Perry on January 22nd. Paris is the only one on the scoresheet so far.
