Top 5 NHL Teams Eyeing Phil Kessel for 2024 Playoffs: Kessel has expressed his desire to continue playing hockey in the National Hockey League, but he has not yet been signed. The American, however, could serve as a depth signing for a team that fails to acquire an impact player before the trade deadline, given the impending postseason.
Five clubs that might acquire Kwame Kessel
Toronto Maple Leafs (#1).
From 2009 to 2015, Phil Kessel was a member of the Toronto Maple Leafs; therefore, a reunion is logical.
Kessel is no longer the leading scorer on the offensive line, but he can contribute to the scoring depth as a third-line winger. Toronto’s inability to score from the bottom six has hampered its postseason performance.
If the Maple Leafs were to acquire Kessel, he could contribute some scoring to the bottom of the lineup and wouldn’t cost much, which is crucial for Toronto, which is on the verge of exceeding the salary limit.
Vegas Golden Knights (No. 2)
Last season, Phil Kessel assisted the Vegas Golden Knights in winning the Stanley Cup; however, the club decided not to re-sign him.
Despite being solidly positioned for the playoffs, the Golden Knights are coping with critical injuries; Jack Eichel, who recently underwent surgery, will be sidelined for a couple of weeks.
Signing Kessel would assist in the substitution of Eichel for the offense, and once he returns to action, Kessel would serve as a depth player for Las Vegas and playoff insurance in the event of another injury.
The third-ranked Florida Panthers
Last season, the Florida Panthers accomplished a Cinderella run to the Stanley Cup Finals, and this season they are positioned to make another significant run.
Despite Florida’s formidable offense, the Panthers will likely require a bottom-six forward by the trade deadline. If Florida determines that the trade value is unsuitable, the Panthers may opt to acquire Kessel, a depth scorer who can operate on the third or fourth line.
Edmonton Oilers, ranked fourth
The bottom six of the Edmonton Oilers have fallen short of expectations, making them a suitable match for Phil Kessel.
Connor Brown has been demoted to the fourth line this season, despite having accumulated only three points and zero goals. It is critical to add offense to the bottom of the lineup, as Mattias Janmark has six points and Adam Erne has just one goal and one assist.
Kessell would provide Edmonton’s low-level offense with a much-needed offensive lift by starting on the third line and contributing to the second power-play unit immediately.
Colorado Avalanche, No. 5
Last season, the Colorado Avalanche were eliminated in the first round of the NHL playoffs. However, this year, they possess a considerably improved roster.
Nevertheless, Colorado may wish to enhance its scoring at the bottom of the lineup before the trade deadline. By entering the game on the third or fourth line, Phil Kessel could provide the Avs with an additional scoring threat and increase their chances of hosting the Cup.
NHL-Blackhawks will not wear Pride jerseys citing player safety concerns
