Former Toronto Maple Leafs forward Kris Versteeg has shared amusing anecdotes from his time as a roommate with Phil Kessel. His stories highlight Kessel’s unique personality and his prowess both on and off the ice.
Memorable Moments with Phil Kessel
During his tenure with the Toronto Maple Leafs, Versteeg enjoyed a brief but memorable period alongside Kessel. The Leafs had acquired Versteeg from the Chicago Blackhawks after their recent Stanley Cup victory.
A comical pre-game meal incident
Versteeg recounted a memorable experience just before a game in New York. Kessel expressed feeling unwell, attributing it to his pre-game meal choices. In a playful exchange, Versteeg jokingly pointed out that Kessel might be suffering from the bowl of cheese he had eaten. Despite not feeling his best, Kessel still managed to score one goal and assist two others during the game. This epitomized his ability to perform under pressure.
Kessel’s Strength and Work Ethic
Versteeg also shed light on Kessel’s strength and fierce competitiveness. During their time together, Versteeg challenged Kessel’s fitness. Claiming he could out-squat Kessel, Versteeg was surprised when Kessel effortlessly squatted an impressive amount of weight, clearly proving his strength.
- Kessel squatted with no warm-up.
- He completed ten reps with considerable weight.
- Versteeg acknowledged being shocked at Kessel’s lifting capability.
This encounter revealed a side of Kessel that many may not know—his undeniable strength combined with a laid-back nature.
Kessel’s Impact on His Teammates
Versteeg praised Kessel’s commitment and work ethic during practices. He indicated that Kessel consistently pushed his teammates to excel. Whether in bag skating drills or other training activities, Kessel was always at the front, setting a high standard for himself and encouraging others to follow.
“Kessel was genuinely committed to enhancing the team’s performance,” Versteeg asserted. “He was not just focused on himself but also on pushing his teammates to be better.”
These reflections from Kris Versteeg offer a glimpse into the dynamic and humorous relationship he had with Phil Kessel. It’s evident that Kessel was a remarkable teammate with a unique blend of skill, strength, and camaraderie. Versteeg’s stories will surely resonate with Maple Leafs fans and hockey enthusiasts alike.
