Insider reports new teams interested in signing Phil Kessel

With NHL training camps opening next week, there's still many prominent free agents on the market vying for jobs, and teams vying for their services. One of the most significant players left unsigned at the moment is the multiple time Stanley Cup Champion, Phil Kessel.

Earlier this month, Sportsnet's Elliott Friedman reported that Kessel wants to continue his career in the NHL, and understands that he may have to forego his ironman games played streak to do so. He also is willing to sign a contract with a team with prior knowledge that if he may not be in the lineup every night.

On Thursday, TSN's Chris Johnston gave a significant update on Kessel's bids to stay in the NHL, reporting that several teams are interested in signing him. At this time, it seems that Kessel will still garner a guaranteed contract, and will not have to settle for a professional tryout.


Kessel, now 35 years old, spent last year with the Vegas Golden Knights, winning his third Stanley Cup of his career. In 82 regular season games, the Wisconsin native had 36 points, with 14 goals and 22 assists. He also registered 30 penalty minutes and was a minus-seven. In only four playoff games, Kessel recorded 2 assists.

It'll be interesting to see how this plays out over the coming weeks, but Phil Kessel has plenty left in the tank and could be a solid depth option for contending teams on a one-year, league minimum contract.

Will Phil Kessel continue his career this year in the NHL? Share your thoughts in the poll below!

It sounds like there's some percolating interest from NHL teams in signing Phil Kessel to a contract for this season.

The veteran forward isn't in PTO territory at this juncture.— Chris Johnston (@reporterchris) September 14, 2023