Veteran NHL forward Phil Kessel, renowned for his impressive career in the league, is reportedly considering a move to the Swiss league. This news, brought to light by TSN Hockey Insider Pierre LeBrun, suggests a significant shift in the career trajectory of one of hockey’s notable players.

While Kessel remains open to opportunities in the NHL, his decision regarding the Swiss league is still pending. This development comes after his recent stint with the Vegas Golden Knights, where he played all 82 regular-season games in the 2022-23 season, contributing 14 goals and 22 assists. However, his participation in the playoffs was limited to only four games, in a season that saw Vegas win their first Stanley Cup in franchise history.

Kessel’s journey in the NHL has been marked by significant achievements since being selected fifth overall by the Boston Bruins in the 2006 draft. Across his career, spanning several teams including the Bruins, Toronto Maple Leafs, Pittsburgh Penguins, Arizona Coyotes, and Golden Knights, Kessel has racked up an impressive 413 goals and 579 assists in 1,286 games. His playoff performance is equally notable, with 34 goals and 49 assists over 100 postseason games, contributing to three Stanley Cup victories in 2016, 2017, and 2023.

Apart from his NHL accomplishments, Kessel’s prowess was also evident at the international level. In the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi, he emerged as a key player for Team USA, becoming the top point-scorer for the squad. His career has also been marked by several high-profile trades, reflecting his value in the league. One such significant move was his transfer from Boston to Toronto in 2009, a subject of much discussion in the hockey world at the time.

December 13, 2023