Rangers Trade Kaapo Kakko to Kraken After Benching Controversy

The New York Rangers have officially parted ways with Kaapo Kakko, trading the former second-overall pick from the 2019 NHL Draft to the Seattle Kraken. In exchange, the Rangers receive Will Borgen, a 2025 third-round pick, and a 2025 sixth-round pick.

A Frustrating End in New York

Kaapo Kakko’s tenure with the Rangers was marked by inconsistency and unfulfilled potential. The trade comes shortly after he was benched as a healthy scratch by head coach Peter Laviolette, a move Kakko openly criticized.

In his candid comments, Kakko expressed frustration over being singled out, stating: “I was surprised, yeah. I know you got to do something as a coach when you’re losing games, but I think it’s just easy to pick a young guy and boot him out. That’s how I feel, to be honest.”

He further defended his play, adding: “I haven’t been on the ice too much when [opponents] score a goal. I have not been the worst guy, but that was me out of the lineup.”

Laviolette, however, stood by his decision, noting: “There’s been older players that have sat out as well. The decisions that I make, they’re tough decisions. Our team, Kaapo—we need to play better. We’re 3-10 in our last 13 games, and that’s not good enough.”

The Kraken’s Perspective

For the Seattle Kraken, this trade is an opportunity to acquire a young, skilled forward with significant upside. At just 22 years old, Kakko still has time to develop into the top-tier player scouts envisioned when he was drafted second overall.

Seattle’s general manager Ron Francis likely sees Kakko as a long-term investment, hoping that a fresh start with the Kraken will help him unlock his full potential.

Rangers’ Recent Moves Signal a Rebuild

This is the second notable trade by the Rangers in recent weeks, following the departure of Jacob Trouba, the team’s former captain, to the Anaheim Ducks. The Rangers’ struggles this season (3-10 in their last 13 games) have prompted a reevaluation of their roster, and more moves could be on the horizon.

By acquiring Will Borgen, a reliable defenseman, and adding two future draft picks, the Rangers are signaling a shift toward retooling for the future.

Kakko’s Legacy with the Rangers

Kaapo Kakko departs New York having played 330 games, tallying 61 goals and 70 assists. While these numbers reflect flashes of brilliance, they also underscore the inconsistency that plagued his time with the Rangers.

His tenure will likely be remembered as one of unmet expectations, but his talent and potential ensure that his career is far from over.

What’s Next?

For the Rangers, this trade marks another step in their efforts to shake up a roster that has underperformed. Meanwhile, Kakko will look to revitalize his career with the Kraken, where he’ll likely be given more opportunities to shine.

The focus now shifts to whether the Rangers will make additional moves ahead of the NHL trade deadline and how Kakko adjusts to life in Seattle. The Kraken are betting on Kakko’s potential to bolster their lineup and secure long-term success.