http://www.cbc.ca/player/News/Canada/Toronto/ID/2646248138/
Not since the likes of Mats Sundin have we seen such a dominate player in a Maple Leafs uniform. Also much like Sundin we see the questions regarding Kessel's commitment to his team. There are countless stories and news reports proving that Phil Kessel is simply an egotistical, undisciplined mamas boy, however, he is also possibly the most gifted scoring talent the Leafs have had in a long time. Does his talent offensively make up for his poor attitude? I would argue no. There was a play the other night in which Kessel as per usual failed to back check when the opposing team began moving towards the Leafs zone. Not only did he fail to back check he also decided to go to the bench. This resulted in a two on one which led to a goal. It was plain as day that the fault lie directly with Kessel's inability to play at both ends of the ice. This lack of commitment and disrespectful attitude must be brutal in the locker room. Can you imagine watching a teammate of yours with such God given talent waste it night in and night out. The lack lustre performance that Kessel is becoming known for however doesn't seem to affect him very much. He continues to press on without so much as a sigh. Maybe it is time we look for leadership in some other number one talent. I think it is time we trade Kessel for a bona fide leader before it gets to the point that nobody wants him.
Not since the likes of Mats Sundin have we seen such a dominate player in a Maple Leafs uniform. Also much like Sundin we see the questions regarding Kessel's commitment to his team. There are countless stories and news reports proving that Phil Kessel is simply an egotistical, undisciplined mamas boy, however, he is also possibly the most gifted scoring talent the Leafs have had in a long time. Does his talent offensively make up for his poor attitude? I would argue no. There was a play the other night in which Kessel as per usual failed to back check when the opposing team began moving towards the Leafs zone. Not only did he fail to back check he also decided to go to the bench. This resulted in a two on one which led to a goal. It was plain as day that the fault lie directly with Kessel's inability to play at both ends of the ice. This lack of commitment and disrespectful attitude must be brutal in the locker room. Can you imagine watching a teammate of yours with such God given talent waste it night in and night out. The lack lustre performance that Kessel is becoming known for however doesn't seem to affect him very much. He continues to press on without so much as a sigh. Maybe it is time we look for leadership in some other number one talent. I think it is time we trade Kessel for a bona fide leader before it gets to the point that nobody wants him.
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