Phil Kessel takes a dig at former team in latest interview

It was a bit of a surprise that it's this far into the summer when we first heard of a new contract for Phil Kessel, but we do finally have one. It was announced Wednesday night that the 34-year-old veteran had signed a one-year deal with the Vegas Golden Knights worth $1.5 million dollars. My guess is Kessel likely had other offers to consider, but decided to go with a team that at least has a chance of getting into the post season (although the latest news on the team's goaltending situation is far from good). In fact, in a meeting with reporters after making his decision, Kessel made it clear that the change of scenery will be a welcome one.

"It's going to be nice playing on a team that wants to win," Kessel remarked to reporters.

This is a subtle dig at his previous team, the Arizona Coyotes. Kessel spent the last three seasons playing in the desert, and wins haven't been a common theme for the Yotes in a while. Arizona made it to the playoffs during the COVID bubble post-season in 2019-20 after winning a qualifying round against the Nashville Predators. Before that, the team hadn't made the playoffs since 2012, and has failed to make it there again the past two years.

"I'm excited. It's a great organization, a great team and a winning place. When you get a chance to play on a good team that wants to win you're always looking forward to it," said Kessel Thursday.

By the way, Kessel's usual number 81 is currently being worn by Jonathan Marchessault. Kessel said he'll be picking a different one before the 2022-23 season starts.

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