Phil Kessel is one of the biggest legends of the modern NHL era—and not just because of how he played on the ice. Kessel was always hilarious and true to himself, and this iconic interview proves exactly why everyone adores him.
Although it’s not confirmed yet, it’s becoming more and more likely that Phil Kessel has played his final NHL game. He played all 82 games for the Vegas Golden Knights during the 2022–23 season but only appeared in four games during their playoff Cup run.
Still, Kessel is considered the current active Iron Man, since he hasn’t been scratched from a regular-season game. However, he hasn’t signed with a team since that season—despite stating that he wants to continue playing.
Phil Kessel’s legendary interview
When he does retire, he’ll go down as one of the true cult players of his generation. Phil Kessel was an offensive force, best remembered for his Cup runs with the Pittsburgh Penguins. But he’s also been a fan favorite for his personality—known as the funniest guy in the locker room and off the ice—and this video proves it.
During the 2016 playoffs, Phil Kessel was interviewed live on TV by broadcaster Pierre McGuire. McGuire used the word “breath” while referring to Kessel’s conditioning, but Kessel misunderstood the question and thought McGuire was commenting on his actual breath. He asked, “Is it that bad?” But once he realized what McGuire really meant, he laughed it off—and for the rest of the interview, he couldn’t stop smiling and laughing.
It’s moments like that that make Phil Kessel such a legend. He’s missed in the NHL—not just as a player, but as a one-of-a-kind personality.
