The New York Rangers recently signed Kaapo Kakko to a one-year deal after the winger became a restricted free agent this summer. The short-term and low value of this deal sparked speculation about Kakko’s future with the organization, as a potential trade could be coming soon for the disappointing depth forward.
The Blueshirts’ summer began by signing Kakko and then quickly escalated with Barclay Goodrow being placed on waivers- who was later claimed by the San Jose Sharks. With the offseason appearing to be filled with major changes, a potential trade to move Kakko off the Rangers could be what Chris Drury has planned next.
Vince Mercogliano of Lohud validated some rumors Thursday morning on the New Ice City podcast by stating, “I do think Kakko is already being discussed in trade talks.”
Colin Stephenson of Newsday added to this, saying “I would presume they’ll move on from him.”
It comes as no surprise that the Rangers might be looking to move on from Kakko, a former second-overall draft pick in 2019. The 23-year-old winger has developed into a solid defensive winger on the Blueshirts’ third offensive unit, but will evidently never live up to his draft potential- at least in New York.
Despite being a great fit defensively on the third line, a lack of depth scoring from Kakko, and the departure of Goodrow, a trade could benefit the Rangers to help bolster their bottom six.
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