This former Boston Bruins forward is hoping to continue his career after not finding a home in 2023-24.
Former Boston Bruins star Phil Kessel did not play during the 2023-24 season. The 36-year-old winger skated with the Vancouver Canucks' AHL affiliate, the Abbotsford Canucks, leading up to the 2024 NHL Trade Deadline. Unfortunately, this did not result in the three-time Stanley Cup champion securing a deal with Vancouver for the final portion of the season.
After missing an entire season, many have naturally wondered about Kessel's plan for the 2024-25 campaign. During the latest episode of 32 Thoughts: The Podcast, NHL insider Elliotte Friedman reported that Kessel still hopes to play during the 2024-25 campaign.
Given Kessel's outstanding resume and immense experience, the prospect of a team taking a shot on him with a professional tryout (PTO) from an NHL team should not be ruled out. While he is no longer the star forward he was during his prime, he still could have the potential to provide solid secondary offensive production in a depth role.
During the 2022-23 season, his last in the NHL, Kessel posted 14 goals and 36 points in 82 games with the Vegas Golden Knights.
It will be exciting to see what happens with Kessel from here. A team needing some help at the right wing position could consider taking a shot on him with a PTO.
