Phil Kessel still remains unsigned and NHL trade rumors are floating around wondering where Phil Kessel will start the 2022-23 season? We will look at three teams that have the best odds at signing Kessel.
Edmonton Oilers
The Edmonton Oilers have been linked to signing P.K. Subban but also Phil Kessel. When the offseason started Elliotte Friedman and Jeff Marek stated on their last Podcast of the season that the likely destination for Kessel would be Edmonton. If you are into sports betting, the money is on Kessel signing with the Oilers.
Carolina Hurricanes
With the recent news of Max Pacioretty being out for the next six months after tearing his Achilles, the Carolina Hurricanes will be seeking some scoring help and Kessel could be a great fit in Carolina.
If Kessel wants to play on an elite team, the Hurricanes would be a great option. The oddsmakers have Carolina tied with the second best odds of where Kessel will sign.
Minnesota Wild
The Minnesota Wild are looking for some scoring help on the cheap after trading away Kevin Fiala because of salary cap constraints. The Wild still have over $4 million in cap space available even with the $12.7 million buyout cap hits of Zach Parise and Ryan Suter.
The oddsmakers have Minnesota tied with Kessel with the second best chance of signing Kessel to a deal.
There is still demand for Kessel’s services. It will all really depend on where Kessel wants to play. If he wants a Stanley Cup contender, he is looking at signing a deal in the $1 million range. If it is a non playoff team like the Arizona Coyotes, Chicago Blackhawks or Buffalo Sabres, he will get paid, but likely no post season for the 34 year old.
Kessel spurned his hometown team before, we don’t want him now. Go ahead sign with the Edmonton Chokers.
Kessel signs with the team with the best hot dogs!