The Arizona Coyotes finally got around to introducing their new goal scoring winger, Phil Kessel
While I strongly believe Phil would still be an asset for the Pittsburgh Penguins I do think going to Arizona will be just fine for him. His legacy is forever solidified with the four year run in Pittsburgh which of course includes two Stanely Cups.
HE was asked right at the beginning if he had looked at the roster and if he could help the Coyotes and I believe he certainly has. I don’t think Arizona is a great team, but I think they have more going for them than Minnesota, a team he declined to go to. The weather sure doesn’t hurt the choice either. Rick Tocchet was mentioned as being a friend which was the icing on the cake. Although, Phil did mention how the friendship has to take a back seat for the business side of things seeing as though Tocchet is a head coach now and not the player friendly assistant he was in Pittsburgh.
When asked if being the #1 star in Arizona would change him Phil gave the most Phil answer possible “I’m going to do what I do”. He did say if he needs to lead a little more then he will lead a little more. My guess is that Tocchet is going to want him to play that role. The team is looking to take the next step and it will be interesting to see how Phil is able to handle such a role during this phase of his career. The last time he had to do this was in Toronto and he had yet to win a Stanley Cup so was labeled a loser. Now that he is a two-time champion it will be interesting to see if he changes and what the narrative will be.
Merchandise is way up due to Phil’s presence and you can’t discount how important that is to a team like the Coyotes who are always battling for a foothold in the entertainment sector. They needed some star power and Phil certainly brings it.
Thanks for reading!
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