Phil Kessel wants to play in 2024-25, but it’s unclear if it will be in the NHL.
Elliotte Friedman mentioned on the “32 Thoughts” podcast that Kessel was approached by Major League Hockey, a new 3-on-3 league starting in October 2025. However, there’s no sign of an NHL contract or tryout for him yet.
Kessel, a three-time All-Star and Stanley Cup champion, didn’t play in the NHL last season after his stint with the Golden Knights in 2022-23. He scored 14 goals and had 36 points in 82 games, which was his lowest since his rookie year. A potential deal with the Canucks fell through due to cap space issues .
Phil Kessel’s Future:
After taking a year off from hockey, Kessel might only fit as a fringe bottom-six scorer or No. 13 forward on most teams now. If he decides to risk his ironman streak of 1,064 consecutive games—currently threatened only by Brent Burns with 843—he might find it easier to secure a contract.
Despite not playing since winning the Cup with Vegas over a year ago, Kessel has stayed active. He’s kept up his training routine and even practiced with Abbotsford, the Canucks’ farm team.
Fans might wonder if this is the end of an era for Kessel or just another chapter in his career.
The unpredictability of sports careers keeps everyone guessing; who knows what will happen next? Maybe he’ll surprise us all!
What do you think about Phil’s future?
