Scott Harrington

Kessel dons Penguins' jersey for first time

Published Aug. 11, 2015 10:50 a.m. ET

foxsports

Phil Kessel is not one to show much emotion, regardless of which jersey he wears.

The offseason acquisition of the Pittsburgh Penguins didn't so much as crack a smile on Monday after trading in the blue and white colors of the Toronto Maple Leafs for the black and gold of the Steel City. The Penguins' official Twitter account released a photo of the 27-year-old Kessel wearing his new jersey with both the same number (81) and expression on his face that Toronto fans know all too well.

We like your style, @PKessel81! pic.twitter.com/HbokxtQR5S
— Pittsburgh Penguins (@penguins) August 10, 2015

Pardon the pun but Kessel is hoping to turn over a new leaf with Pittsburgh after his 25-goal output in Toronto last season was his lowest in a full campaign since mustering just 19 with the Boston Bruins in 2006-07.

Kessel was acquired from the Maple Leafs along with forward Tyler Biggs, defenseman Tim Erixon and a 2016 second-round selection for forwards Nick Spaling, Kasperi Kapanen, blue-liner Scott Harrington and first- and third-round picks next year.

A five-time 30-goal scorer, Kessel will get a look at his former team when Toronto visits Pittsburgh on Oct. 17.

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