Phil Kessel's First Practice In Vancouver Raising Questions About His Ability to Play in the NHL

Phil Kessel was seemingly just gifted an insane opportunity to make his comeback to the NHL with one of the frontrunners for the Stanley Cup. However, questions are being raised about his current state of conditioning, and if he is fit enough to play in the NHL.

He was seen gassed during practice with Abbotsford, raising questions about whether he would need a conditioning stint before joining an NHL roster.

The Vancouver Canucks are having a breakout season this year, and it begs the question as to whether Kessel brings anything to the table that they really need. One aspect of Kessel's game that the Canucks could use is his Stanley Cup experience. While the Canucks likely already have the leadership they want at the helm for the post-season, Kessel brings a veteran, glue-guy presence to a locker room that can go beyond the hard-nosed leadership that is required to get it done in the post-season.

The Canucks will have to decide if this is worth the risk of adding him to the roster, as that means roster shuffles would be in store for the team who has everything going for them right now. We will see what they decide to do.