Kessel enjoying strong start to season

A lot of the attention on the Penguins at the moment in the season is on Sidney Crosby and Matt  Murray as both players are making strong statements at either ends of the ice. Last year the Penguins struggled early on and the change and adjustments meant we didn't get the best out of everyone. Kessel had a decent, but below par season last year. This year is a different question, so far after 13 games he is playing supremely well.

So far the Penguins have been a strong team, currently sitting 2nd in the Metropolitan Division behind the New York Rangers, although they have played two extra games. Crosby leads the Penguins but that is no surprise but Kessel has been a key force which has currently held the Penguins as the 8th most attacking team with 47 games through 15 games.

Kessel has scored in 6 of the teams 15 games this season and is playing like he could break the 60 point plateau as a member of the Penguins. Kessel's chemistry with Malkin continues to show and that is a heavily dangerous duo this season. Sullivan has brought the best out of the two and I would like to see them permanently together on a line more often. The HBK line is great but at times it needs shaking up.

Kessel currently has the fourth most shots on goal behind only Hornqvist, Crosby and Malkin. The only downside is that he is currently only running at a shooting percentage of 8.8% compared to his career average of 10.7%. He is currently on course to finish the season with just 16 goals and that is a worry. Kessel is a wicked shooter and he hasn't been able to find the net lately. Hopefully that changes soon.

So far, Kessel has been impressive. But he needs to shoot more and trust his shot. The powerplay clicking is a big part of that but so far it has been an effective unit this season. If he continues his high possession play then it won't be long before his gets back to scoring. Lets hope he starts against the Capitals.