The Las Vegas Golden Knights forward Phil Kessel is within arms reach of breaking an NHL record after hitting the ice during his team’s 3-1 victory over the Toronto Maple Leafs at the T-Mobile Arena on Monday night.
Making his 989th consecutive NHL appearance during Monday night’s game, he now ties with Philadelphia Flyers defenseman Keith Yandle for the most consecutive appearances in the league’s history. Yandle set this record last season, ending his streak on March 29, 2022.
Kessel is set to break this record when the Golden Knights visit the San Jose Sharks on Tuesday, however, in Kessel’s mind, this will not be his priority on the night.
“I’ve played a lot of games and it’s better when you win,” Kessel remarked, explaining that what he cares about most is getting the win for his team.
Kessel began his streak on November 3, 2009, while still a member of the Maple Leafs. Now, as a member of the Golden Knights, Kessel has been in search of his debut goal for the team, coming close during the victory against his former side.
Although Kessel appeared to have scored the 400th goal of his career against the Leafs, his goal was overturned on an offside call via a Toronto coach’s challenge.
