Kaapo Kakko, the newly acquired forward for the Seattle Kraken, embarked on his new adventure with the team early Thursday morning, having arrived at their Chicago hotel around 1 a.m. following a flight from New York. Despite the late arrival, the 23-year-old was enthusiastic about his first meeting with head coach Dan Bylsma just hours later.
During their conversation, Bylsma reflected on his memories of watching Kakko play for Team Finland at the Men’s World Championships, where he showcased his skills before being selected as the No. 2 overall pick in the NHL Draft. The coach remembered the intense discussions among Finnish scouts who believed Kakko should have been the first overall selection, highlighting his impressive performance as a 17-year-old where he contributed six goals and one assist, helping Finland secure the gold medal. Kakko holds the unique distinction of being the youngest player to win gold in all three International Ice Hockey Federation World Championships.
The meeting between Kakko and Bylsma was brief but productive, leading into a team meeting and a 1-on-1 video session. Both the player and coach expressed excitement about Kakko’s upcoming debut with the Kraken against the Chicago Blackhawks.
Bylsma acknowledged the team’s recent loss of long-time defender Will Borgen but emphasized the positive impact Kakko’s trade could have on the Kraken’s offensive lineup. “It does come with losing long-time Kraken [defenseman Will Borgen],” Bylsma remarked, indicating the dual nature of the trade.
Kakko learned about the trade just before 5:30 p.m. the previous evening and quickly made arrangements to head to Seattle. He expressed his eagerness and confidence in his playing ability, highlighting his strengths in creating offensive opportunities and his growth as a two-way player. He mentioned his past success, with his best statistical season yielding 18 goals and 22 assists during the 2022-2023 season.
With his physical stature at 6-foot-1 and 215 pounds, Kakko is recognized for his ability to win puck battles and maintain possession in the offensive zone, enhancing opportunities for his teammates. Bylsma praised Kakko’s potential, noting his ability to shield the puck and create space for shooting options.
In the morning skate prior to the game against Chicago, Kakko appeared to be in line for power-play shifts, indicating his integral role in the team strategy moving forward.
This transition marks a significant step for both Kakko and the Kraken, as they aim to strengthen their lineup and boost offensive production. The move not only provides Kakko with an opportunity to showcase his talent in a fresh environment but also raises hopes for the team’s competitive edge in upcoming matches.
In summary, Kaapo Kakko’s trade to the Kraken represents a promising new chapter in his career, offering him a chance to contribute significantly to the team’s success and solidify his position as a valuable asset in the NHL.