The negativity around Kessel is overblown. I know a lot of you think about how out of place Kessel would be in a Hartley system - but could you imagine if Kessel got into shape?
I believe in Hartley - and part of the reason why is that he can get a lot of his players.
Everyone is on the Wideman train these days, but he was a healthy scratch and was noted as being out of shape prior to the 13/14 season. Under Hartley, Wideman has become fit and is playing the best hockey of his career.
If Bob could do that with Kessel? That'd be a huge win for our organization. Kessel as-is, remains one of the best snipers in the league. Under the right guidance, he could be much, much more.
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