The Chicago Blackhawks Should Consider Signing Free Agent Phil Kessel
Considering the Chicago Blackhawks are going to do some sort of rebuild, having a veteran who can score and play every game, they should look into signing free agent forward Phil Kessel.
While Kessel has not burned up the NHL in his last few years in Arizona, he has averaged 0.44 points per game. He's been instrumental on the power play as well, with 15 goals, 29 assists in 208 games.
Kessel is an excellent possession player and is great at carrying the puck into the offensive zone.
The question then becomes, can he help the Blackhawks? The simple answer is YES! Kessel has never been known for his defensive game, as his +/- statistic of -62 while in Arizona displays.
He does have a role, and he fills it well. This past season he has turned from a goal scorer to a playmaker, gathering 44 assists.
Kessel would be a valuable asset to mentor young players as he did with the Coyotes. When he was on a line with Clayton Keller, the two clicked and it certainly helped Keller's game.
Now, other teams will be interested in Kessel for the above stated reasons. His $6.8 million cap hit is a thing of the past. If the Hawks, or any other team, were to offer him a two-year deal in the $2-$3 million range to keep playing (don't forget he is still trying for that Ironman feat), he would more than likely accept it.
The other teams interested in Kessel could be the Florida Panthers (think golf courses, warm weather), the Pittsburgh Penguins (a reunion for sure), and the New Jersey Devils (nah...).
Let's face it... Chicago has to be on Phil's short list. Chicago hot dogs are the BEST!
Wherever Kessel lands he will be a good addition as long as they know his strengths and weaknesses. He's not going to play much if any defense, so use him where he excels... on the power play.
He still possesses a strong shot and can make plays with the best of them. His ability to stay healthy is another strong plus he could bring to any team.
https://www.nhl.com/video/recap-ari-5-sjs-2/t-332029658/c-11158081
| POLL | ||
Should the Blackhawks sign Phil Kessel? | ||
| Yes, go for it! | 53 | 33.1 % |
| No, he's washed up | 65 | 40.6 % |
| Only if he accepts a big pay cut | 42 | 26.3 % |
| List of polls | ||
