After months off the radar, Phil Kessel resurfaces in girlfriend’s hilarious post

Phil Kessel celebrated his 38th birthday on Thursday and his partner Sandra Pereira posted a story of the three-time Stanley Cup champion eating cake for breakfast, while his young daughter Kapri on his lap.

The picture got fans talking, not only because everyone loves a good photo of Phil enjoying food, but most importantly because it gave them the chance to ask about an NHL comeback.

Kessel may not have suited up for an NHL game in the last two seasons, but the veteran forward’s star power clearly hasn’t faded. Not only was he recognized internationally on a trip to Greece this summer, but he is still looking good, ready for a contract.

Despite sitting out free agency and not receiving a PTO invite to training camp last year and this season, Kessel has never officially announced his retirement. At 38, he’s missed the past two full seasons, but fans aren’t ready to see him hang up the skates, and maybe he isn’t either.

It’s hard to argue with his résumé: after he was selected fifth overall by the Bruins in 2006, Kessel played a total of 1,286 NHL games, recorded 413 goals, 579 assists, and won three Stanley Cups. He was hoping to add even more games, and maybe a fourth championship, before finally hanging them up.

I say give him a shot. Depth scoring and veteran leadership are always in demand. Kessel has been remarkably durable throughout his career, famously holding the NHL’s ironman streak for most consecutive games played. His hockey IQ and quick release don’t disappear overnight.

Plus, he’s aging like fine wine.