Rejoint: juin 2021
Messages: 1,025
Mentions "j'aime": 433
I think Kessel's career might be over. I hate to say it, but think about it. He had quite a lot of assists with the Yotes last year, but that feels like an effect of the "someone has to score" syndrome that Arizona has. As a career sniper (6 30+ goal seasons, 12 20+) he had just 8 goals last year. Everyone loves him because he's the dude throwing down junk food and being a star player with a dad bod, but that type of lifestyle has created a drastic decline. And because of his iron man streak, there's pressure to keep him in the lineup over better players. Look at Keith Yandle, the same thing happened to him this season.
He's a defensive liability, his offense is slowing down as he ages, he's essentially unable to be scratched. Any takers?
I love Kessel, he's one of my favorite players and he was essential for the Penguins' back to back Cups. But bringing him back isn't a good idea. The Penguins are above the salary cap as it is, Kessel never gelled well with Malkin while he was here, and Kessel just isn't good enough anymore to move the needle.