Even though he doesn’t have a National Hockey League (NHL) contract this season, Phil Kessel continues to train tirelessly to prove he can help.
For the first time since 2006/2007, the 36-year-old veteran has no clear direction in mind. However, he feels like he deserves better, especially since he just won the Stanley Cup with the Vegas Golden Knights.
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“Of course I’m a little surprised that I haven’t gotten anything yet, but that’s how it is, isn’t it?” he admitted in an interview with The Athletic on Thursday.
“I know I can still play and help. Compared to the minutes I played last year, I think my stats were pretty solid. I know I can help and contribute to a team that needs goals,” continued the man who is eight points away from 1,000 in the NHL.
Kessel was used less than before and still put up 36 points in 82 regular season games in Las Vegas. The American then only played four games in the playoffs.
The former Boston Bruins, Toronto Maple Leafs, Pittsburgh Penguins and Arizona Coyotes aren’t asking for much either. He just wants to act, whatever role he plays, without demanding an exorbitant salary.
The Arizona resident skated with his former Knights teammates until September. He is in good shape and his phone is always open.
“I’ll stay ready,” assured Kessel. I skate. Next week I will be working with an ice skating instructor here. We will have individual sessions to keep me fit.”
The fifth overall pick in the 2006 draft took part in 1,286 games in the Bettman circuit. He surpassed the 30-goal mark six times and won three Stanley Cups.