Vegas Golden Knights general manager Kelly McCrimmon is thrilled to land his hands on Wednesday’s Phil Kessel, a proven player who he says will help his club next season.
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The day after the 34-year-old hockey player’s arrival in Nevada was confirmed, the GM spoke to the media to explain the reasons behind the award of a one-year contract and 1, $5 million to the one who played the last campaign with the Arizona Coyotes.
For McCrimmon, such a hiring was a necessity.
“During the past season, we analyzed the possibility of obtaining an experienced striker. According to our way of seeing things, it is a perfect combination. Phil has consistently produced throughout his career. He has a high-level arsenal of skills and everything is unique within our group of forward players,” he explained in a virtual press briefing.
“He is an established veteran in the National League and has achieved a lot of success. He won the Stanley Cup twice,” he also recalled.
Back with a suitor
After a very successful stint with the Pittsburgh Penguins, Kessel ended up with the Coyotes, who typically sit bottom of the overall standings. He has eight goals – his career-low total – and 44 assists for 52 points in 82 games in 2021-22.
“Arizona, they have very good guys, all the players, they are good young people and there are good people. But when you don’t necessarily want to win and go further, it becomes difficult for a player, especially when you came from Pittsburgh,” Kessel said in a video conference.
“When you have the chance to play with a good team that wants to win, it’s always a motivation, he has the Golden Knights. […] I’m very motivated to come here and help this team claim top honors. I’m excited and I think I’m going to have a really good year.”
In front of the net
Meanwhile, McCrimmon said his roster will rely on Laurent Brossoit and Logan Thompson to defend the net at the start of the regular season. Out for the entirety of it, Robin Lehner underwent hip surgery and another surgery will be performed later.
However, Brossoit is also recovering from a similar operation, but his fitness is going well. “However, I can’t tell you if he will be ready in time for the first part,” said the DG.