Phil Kessel redefined “longevity” within the NHL.
The record for the most consecutive games played was set by the Las Vegas Golden Knights forward last night. His 4-2 victory over the San Jose Sharks was his 909th consecutive game, breaking Keith Yandle’s 989 record.
Kessel, the new “iron man” of the league, said, “I was happy that I got it.” It was a special night. “I’m happy to have the win.”
Phil Kessel is the NHL’s new “Ironman”, playing in his 990th consecutive game pic.twitter.com/BU8mJCSiGl
TSN (@TSN_Sports), October 26, 2022
Kessel, also known by the nickname “Phil the Thrill”, is 35 and is currently playing in his 17th NHL season. Kessel, also known as “Phil the Thrill”, began his amazing streak with the Boston Bruins on Nov. 3, 2009. He continued his streak with stints with the Toronto Maple Leafs and Pittsburgh Penguins (where two Stanley Cups were won) and the Arizona Coyotes, before setting the NHL’s youngest franchise record.
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After Kessel’s first game with William Carrier, Nicholas Roy and Kessel, the Sharks recognized the forward and offered their congratulations to the crowd.
This streak began on November 3, 2009, and Phil Kessel has played 990 consecutive games since then.
You are truly deserving of a standing ovation.
: @espn https://t.co/0fabdNvPG5 pic.twitter.com/gwrqjrSKX5
— NHL (@NHL), October 26, 2022
“It was very nice. I appreciate it. They don’t have the obligation to do this. But I appreciate it from them,” Kessel stated.
Kessel also took the opportunity to remind everyone that even though he is in his mid-thirties, he still has a little spring in his step. Kessel opened the scoring by soaring past Sharks defenseman Matt Benning, and scoring a goal over goalie James Reimer just over four minutes into the first period. Kessel scored his 400th goal of his career, making him the 106th player in league history to achieve that milestone.
PHIL KESSEL, GOAL 400 IN HIS IRON MAN GAME!#VegasBorn pic.twitter.com/t4KQ0nTj6M
Hockey Daily 365 l NHL Highlights (@HockeyDaily365), October 26, 2022
Kessel made hockey history twice in one night, and his teammates couldn’t help but be thrilled.
William Karlsson, a teammate, said that it was pure joy from everyone. “Everyone was cheering and howling. It was great to see it go in.
Kessel will be looking to continue his streak and ensure that the Golden Knights have a hot start to the season with the record. Las Vegas is currently at the top of the Pacific Division and tied with the Bruins for the most points in the NHL, with 12.
