Phil Kessel’s summer plans spark talk of 2025-26 NHL comeback

Phil 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. Recently spotted on a family trip in Greece, Kessel was stunned to find hockey fans overseas recognizing him on the street. Even halfway around the world, Kessel has fans hoping for his return to professional hockey.

That kind of recognition says a lot. Kessel isn’t just remembered in the cities he’s played in like Boston, Toronto, Pittsburgh, Arizona, and Vegas, but by hockey fans across the globe. His name still resonates, and so does the excitement he brought every time he touched the puck.

Despite sitting out free agency and not receiving a PTO invite to training camp last season, Kessel has never officially announced his retirement. At 37, 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.

And why not? 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.

Seeing Kessel greeted like a star in Greece is a reminder that hockey fans haven’t forgotten him. Teams shouldn’t either. For the 2025–26 season, there’s still room in the NHL for a player with Kessel’s experience, touch, and winning pedigree.