CRANBERRY TOWNSHIP, Pa. — Phil Kessel joined the Penguins at training camp Friday, ready to play alongside centers Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin.

“It’s pretty special,” he said. “It’s a great opportunity for myself and I’m going to try to take full advantage of it. I’m excited to get to play with the guys in this locker room. There are some good players in here.”

Pittsburgh acquired Kessel, forward Tyler Biggs and defenseman Tim Erixon from the Toronto Maple Leafs on July 1 for forwards Kasperi Kapanen and Nick Spaling, defenseman Scott Harrington and two conditional draft picks.

Kessel has spent nine years in the NHL. His last six were with Toronto.

The Penguins plan to place Kessel on Crosby’s right side Tuesday when he makes his preseason debut against the Carolina Hurricanes.