Phil Kessel Only Played 30 Seconds Last Night For The Best Reason
Heading into Detroit last night, Phil Kessel had played in 955 consecutive games. He's currently 22 games and still counting behind Keith Yandle for the longest iron man streak in NHL history. It's a streak he started back in October of 2009 with Toronto.
That was a little over 12 years ago. Think about how much in your own life has changed over the past 12 years. You've grown up, went to college, got a job, got fired, got another job, found a girl, fell in love, bought a house, got married, maybe have a few kids already or at least a few on the way. For Phil Kessel, he's a confirmed 2x Stanley Cup Champion and a confirmed 1x sex haver, as he and his girlfriend Sara are about to have their first kid.
First of all, congratulations to the Kessels (I don't think they're married but I'd imagine that's in the works at some point). Having a baby is a beautiful thing for the most part. But also…having kids turns your schedule into complete shit. Which Phil had to quickly learn the hard way last night when the 'Yotes were scheduled to play in Detroit. Either A) play in a meaningless game to keep your iron man streak going or B) be there for the birth of your first child. Tough call to make but turns out that contrary to popular belief, the Arizona Coyotes are actually a top class organization.
Flies to Detroit with the team. Takes one shift, gets a quick shot on goal, and then the owner hooks him up with a PJ back to Phoenix so he can be there for the birth.
Sure, the team might be playing their home games in a college barn next season. But you can't knock them on this one. Quality move from an organization that has been getting a ton of shit lately.
P.S. - Iron Dad Kessel is going to do some damage. Might not miss a game until 2030.