Phil Kessel's NHL Future In Jeopardy After His First Practice Ends Horribly

Phil Kessel had his first practice back after a long free agency this offseason, and it didn't go as he'd probably have hoped, raising questions about his future in the NHL.

Phil Kessel Gassed During Practice Raising Questions About His Conditioning

Kessel was given an incredible opportunity to join one of the potential Stanley Cup contenders in the Vancouver Canucks, and had his first practice yesterday with their AHL affiliate in Abbotsford. However, the practice didn't go as well as he'd likely hoped for, as he was visibly tired throughout the practice.

This has raised some questions about Kessel's fitness levels, and if he will need to undergo a conditioning stint before he hits the NHL.

Canucks Need to Figure Out if Kessel Is Worth Shaking Things Up

The Vancouver Canucks are having an incredible breakout season, leading the charge for potential contenders for the Stanley Cup. They will need to figure out if adding Kessel is worth shaking up what has been working this season.



Kessel does bring some intangibles to the table. He has some incredible Stanley Cup experience, in a veteran, glue-guy-type fashion that the Canucks could certainly use.

We will have to see if the Canucks are willing to take the risk on Kessel.