The Daily: Hot Dog! Phil Kessel Becomes NHL’s Ironman Tonight

Vegas Golden Knights forward Phil Kessel has always had the body of a recreation hockey player and the skill of an elite performer. Remember when he was the last pick for captains when they chose up sides for an NHL All-Star game?

It’s hard not to like, or at least be fascinated, with, Kessel. That’s why many fans are rooting for Phil Kessel to pass Keith Yandle and become the NHL’s Ironman. When the Golden Knights play the Toronto Maple Leafs tonight, Kessel will tie Yandle’s NHL record of 989 consecutive games played.

If nothing goes wrong, Kessel would become the reigning Ironman the following night when he plays against the San Jose Sharks.

Provided Kessel, 35, isn’t injured, he would play his 1000th game Nov. 17 against the Arizona Coyotes. He played for that team before signing with the Golden Knights. This is Kessel’s 17th season. Lost in his Ironman chase, Kessel needs only one goal to reach the 400-goal mark.

He is already among the most productive American scorers in league history. Owen Krepps of Vegas Hockey Now offers six memorable moments from Kessel’s career. 

In Case You Missed It

Red Wings have offense, defense and goaltending going strong in 5-1 win against the Anaheim Ducks.

Bob Duff speculates about what Victor Brattstrom’s injury could mean for Sebastian Cossa in Grand Rapids.

Coach Derek Lalonde is looking for the Red Wings to better in the faceoff circle. They were still under 50% against the Anaheim Ducks.

Red Wings’ Next Game

The 3-0-2 Red Wings are home against the New Jersey Devils Tuesday

Hockey Now Network

Boston: Resurgent forward Nick Foligno loves being a Bruin. Boston Bruins.

Montreal: The Canadiens’ continue to search for a defenseman and the Carolina Hurricanes might be a good fit. How about Ethan Bear? Montreal Canadiens 

Philadelphia: John Tortorella regularly sends messages. Sunday night, he benched two stars in the third period. The Philadelphia Flyers got the message. Philadelphia Flyers.

Also, Oskar Lindblom signed with the San Jose Sharks over the summer. The cancer survivor, still very well regarded on Broad Street, received a stirring tribute and ovation. Watch the Oskar Lindblom tribute and reaction.

Washington: The Washington Capitals are considering sending Connor McMichael back to the American Hockey League. Washington Capitals.