Sullivan: Kessel has better offensive instincts than coaching staff

Phil Kessel is uncoachable.

That was the narrative suggested by Toronto media last season following comments from his former coach Ron Wilson while Kessel struggled with the Maple Leafs, the team stuck in the midst of one of the worst midseason collapses in franchise history.

More than a year later, it appears the Pittsburgh Penguins' coaching staff has reached a similar conclusion - for a much different reason.

"He certainly has way better instincts on offense than the coaching staff," head coach Mike Sullivan said Monday. "That's what makes him an elite player."

After a solid first season in Pittsburgh that saw Kessel collect 26 goals and 59 points in 82 games, he's picked up his play in the postseason. He leads the team with nine goals and 18 points, and heads up the league with 73 shots.