Two Leading Contenders Surface in the Race to Land Phil Kessel

With the start of the season on the horizon, teams are starting to make cuts and realizing what their assets and needs are.

A few teams will find themselves looking at last-minute options to fill their roster, and one particular free agent could be welcomed by many teams.

Kessel Back in the NHL? Still Available on the Market

Phil Kessel, who recently won the third Stanley Cup of his career with the Golden Knights, hasn't signed a contract for the upcoming season yet.


However, this could change sooner than later.

A player like Kessel, who can add firepower to a team's bottom-six, will likely receive a few offers before the start of the season.

We can imagine teams like the Calgary Flames or the St. Louis Blues being in the derby.

Kessel to Sign in Calgary or St. Louis? Exploring the Scenarios

Kessel can still bring a lot to a team. Let's look at what he could bring in Calgary.

Kessel in Calgary:

The Flames lost many important players this summer, including Tyler Toffoli and Milan Lucic. Their depth took quite a hit, and Kessel could help in that area.

The news of Jakob Pelletier being injured long-term could also force Craig Conroy to add another player.

Kessel in St. Louis:

The Blues could use more offensive talent in their lineup, especially in the bottom-six.

St. Louis will be looking to make it to the playoffs this year, and given their lack of firepower, adding Kessel could be a game-changer for them.

Do you think Kessel will sign an NHL contract before the start of the season?

As seen on NHL Trade Rumors - NHL Rumors: 2 Possible Landing Spots for Kessel