American former professional ice hockey player Blake Kessel advanced throughout his career. From his Wisconsin roots to his major role in multiple minor league clubs, Kessel was committed, skilled, and determined. This page discusses his career, position, and net worth.
Early Life and Background
Blake Kessel was born on April 13, 1989, in Verona, Wisconsin. Growing up in a family deeply involved in hockey, Kessel was exposed to the sport from a young age. His brother, Phil Kessel, is also a well-known name in the NHL, which naturally brought attention to Blake’s career early on. His early passion for the game was nurtured through various youth leagues in Wisconsin, leading him to standout performances that set the stage for his future in professional hockey.
College and Junior Hockey Career
In 2006–07, Kessel played for the Waterloo Black Hawks in the USHL, where he excelled defensively and offensively. Following junior hockey, Blake Kessel played collegiate hockey for the University of New Hampshire Wildcats. His improvement in college and play on the ice made him a top defenseman in his conference.
Kessel’s offensive and defensive skills improved throughout his tenure with the Wildcats. He joined the rush and contributed to the team’s offence. His Hockey East Conference performance earned him later All-Star honours. His NCAA accomplishments helped him get attention, but he was still less recognised than his brother Phil Kessel.
Professional Career Begins
Blake Kessel was drafted by the New York Islanders in the sixth round of the 2007 NHL Draft. However, despite being drafted, he spent most of his career in the American Hockey League (AHL) and the East Coast Hockey League (ECHL), rather than the NHL. Kessel suited up for several teams, including the Orlando Solar Bears and the Kalamazoo Wings, where his mobility and skill set were put to good use on the ice.
Although he never made a long-term impact in the NHL, Kessel’s career in the minor leagues was a testament to his dedication. Known for his quickness and ability to move the puck up the ice, Kessel developed a reputation as a solid, reliable defenseman. He continued to play for various AHL and ECHL teams throughout his career, gradually becoming a veteran leader for the teams he played on.
Transition to Coaching and Post-Retirement Life
Blake Kessel became a coach after playing. He coached the Ironbound Elite 16U Premier squad, exhibiting his commitment for youth development. His coaching job allowed him to teach future players the skills and ideals he had learnt while playing. After retiring, Kessel became a coach, giving him a fresh way to be active in hockey.
His decision to coach shows his dedication to the sport and his desire to help future hockey players. Coaching let him use his leadership skills from years of top-level play.
Blake Kessel’s Playing Style and Strengths
Blake Kessel was known for being a fast and mobile defenseman, excelling at transitioning the puck out of the defensive zone and contributing to the offensive rush. His ability to read the game and make quick decisions with the puck was one of his standout attributes. He had a solid shot from the blue line and was capable of joining the rush effectively, offering another dimension to his team’s attack.
However, Kessel’s defensive game was sometimes seen as an area in need of improvement. While he was a capable defender, his play without the puck could occasionally be inconsistent. Despite this, his overall skill set made him a valuable asset for the teams he played for throughout his career.
Career Highlights and Achievements
Blake Kessel had a successful career despite being less famous than his brother Phil. His steady play in the AHL and ECHL and selection to different All-Star teams with the University of New Hampshire and his pro clubs are remarkable accomplishments. Coaches, players, and fans praised his offensive and defensive play.
Kessel’s minor league hockey career was notable despite his lack of NHL experience. He was crucial to team growth and left a lasting impression on his teammates.
Blake Kessel Net Worth
Blake Kessel’s net worth is estimated to be around $4.17 million as of 2024. While this figure is far below the net worth of his NHL-famous brother, Phil Kessel, it reflects his career in minor league hockey and coaching. Much of his income came from playing for various teams in the AHL and ECHL, where he was able to earn a respectable salary. Additionally, his transition to coaching likely provides him with additional sources of income.
His net worth growth is a reflection of his years spent playing at professional levels, though it may also be supplemented by investments, coaching fees, and other ventures. For someone who spent a significant amount of time developing his skills and coaching the next generation of hockey players, his financial standing shows his dedication both on and off the ice.
Legacy and Impact
While less famous than his brother, Blake Kessel’s hockey legacy is one of hard work and dedication. Throughout his career, he proved that commitment to the game might lead to success beyond the NHL. Kessel inspires young hockey players to work hard and follow their aspirations as a coach.
Blake Kessel may not have had the biggest impact on the game, but his hard ethic, leadership, and passion for it were felt by those who worked with him. Both as a player and coach, Kessel was dedicated to hockey.
FAQ
Who is Blake Kessel?
Blake Kessel is a former American professional ice hockey defenseman, best known for his time in the AHL and ECHL. He was drafted by the New York Islanders in 2007 but spent most of his career in the minor leagues.
What teams did Blake Kessel play for?
Throughout his career, Blake Kessel played for teams such as the Orlando Solar Bears and Kalamazoo Wings in the ECHL and AHL. He also had a stint in college hockey with the University of New Hampshire.
What is Blake Kessel’s net worth?
Blake Kessel’s net worth is estimated at $4.17 million as of 2024, primarily from his professional hockey career and coaching.
Is Blake Kessel still involved in hockey?
Yes, after retiring from playing, Blake Kessel transitioned into coaching and currently works with the Ironbound Elite 16U Premier team.
