Kaapo Kakko is looking for a “fresh start” with the Seattle Kraken following a challenging five-plus years with the New York Rangers. The 23-year-old forward was traded to the Kraken for defenseman Will Borgen and draft picks (a third- and sixth-round pick in the 2025 NHL Draft) on Wednesday.
Kakko, who was the second overall pick in the 2019 NHL Draft, is set to make his debut with Seattle against the Chicago Blackhawks on Thursday evening. After a morning skate with the team, he expressed optimism about the opportunity: “I hope I’m going to get a chance over here… just play your game and they’re going to trust me. That’s all that I need.”
This past week was tough for Kakko, as he faced being a healthy scratch for the first time this season during a game against the St. Louis Blues, which contributed to his frustrations. Despite accumulating 14 points (four goals, ten assists) and a plus-9 rating in 30 games this season, he struggled for consistency during the previous season with only 19 points in 61 games.
Following that benching, Kakko was surprised to be singled out and voiced his discomfort regarding the decision. His frustrations were compounded when the Rangers lost their 11th game out of the last 14. He played only 10 minutes and 14 seconds in a subsequent game against the Nashville Predators.
On the day Kakko learned of his trade, general manager Chris Drury reached out to him, revealing his transfer to the Kraken, a move that had reportedly been in discussion for about a week. Kraken general manager Ron Francis acknowledged that trade discussions gained momentum after Kakko’s recent comments regarding his situation with the Rangers. He speculated that the Rangers’ struggles may have prompted the move.
Kakko believes that the trade was inevitable due to the team’s broader struggles and doesn’t think his comments played a definitive role in his being traded. He stated, “A lot of good players over there. I think (they) need to do something over there. I was kind of waiting for something to happen. I knew also it might be me.”
This new chapter with the Kraken presents Kakko with a significant opportunity to thrive in a fresh environment, where he hopes to regain his confidence and contribute positively to his new team’s success. It’s a chance for Kakko not only to showcase his talents but also to grow and develop without the weight of past expectations lingering over him.
In summary, Kakko’s transition to the Kraken represents a hopeful opportunity for rejuvenation in his career, allowing him to step into a new role and potentially flourish in a supportive atmosphere.