Kaapo Kakko is looking forward to a “fresh start” with the Seattle Kraken following a challenging five-plus seasons with the New York Rangers. The 23-year-old forward, in his sixth year in the NHL, was traded to the Kraken on Wednesday in exchange for defenseman Will Borgen and two draft picks in the upcoming 2025 NHL Draft.
Drafted second overall by the Rangers in 2019, Kakko is set to make his Kraken debut against the Chicago Blackhawks, an opportunity he embraces as a chance to start anew. After experiencing inconsistency with his performance in New York and struggling to secure a stable role, the move offers him a renewed chance to contribute meaningfully to his new team.
Kakko expressed his eagerness to earn the trust of his new coaches, stating, “I hope I’m going to get a chance over here. That’s all that I need.” His determination to seize this opportunity reflects a positive mindset, as he prepares to put previous frustrations behind him.
His final days with the Rangers were marked by challenges, notably being a healthy scratch for the first time this season during a loss against the St. Louis Blues, which added to his evident frustration. This situation came after a season in which he recorded 14 points in 30 games, yet faced difficulty in maintaining a consistent level of play.
Kakko’s trade was initiated after discussions between Kraken general manager Ron Francis and Rangers general manager Chris Drury, which intensified following his benching. While Francis noted that Kakko’s situation added urgency to the trade talks, he emphasized that multiple factors are at play in player transactions.
In Kakko’s view, the team’s struggles in New York were a catalyst for the trade, indicating a desire for change within the organization. However, he remains focused on making a positive impact with the Kraken moving forward.
In summary, Kakko’s transition to the Kraken presents a compelling opportunity for both him and the team to build upon potential and embrace change. Fans can look forward to seeing how he capitalizes on this fresh start and contributes to Seattle’s season ahead. This new chapter not only signifies Kakko’s personal drive to succeed but also symbolizes the potential for renewal within the Kraken’s roster as they seek to strengthen their performance.