Rangers Trade Kaapo Kakko to Kraken in Blockbuster Deal

The New York Rangers have shaken up their roster once again, trading Kaapo Kakko to the Seattle Kraken in exchange for defenseman Will Borgen, a 2025 third-round pick, and a 2026 sixth-round pick. This move comes amid a turbulent season for Kakko, who now gets a fresh start in a less demanding hockey market.

Kakko’s Frustrations Reach a Boiling Point

At just 23, Kakko was once heralded as a cornerstone for the Rangers after being selected second overall in the 2019 NHL Draft. Over 330 games, he tallied 61 goals and 131 points, showing flashes of brilliance but struggling with consistency.

This season has been particularly tough for Kakko, with only four goals and 14 points in 30 games. His frustrations boiled over after being scratched in Sunday’s matchup against the St. Louis Blues. Speaking to the New York Post, Kakko didn’t mince words: “I know you have to do something as a coach when you’re losing games, but it’s easy to pick on a young guy and bench him. That’s how I feel, to be honest.”

Now, Kakko heads to Seattle with a chance to reset and unlock his potential. Kraken GM Ron Francis expressed optimism about the young forward: “Kaapo is a dynamic young talent who brings skill and offensive ability to our team. We’re excited to help him reach the next level.”

What the Rangers Get in Will Borgen

In return, the Rangers add Will Borgen, a physical, stay-at-home defenseman expected to bolster their blue line. With Jacob Trouba traded to the Anaheim Ducks last week, Borgen fills a critical need as a reliable bottom-pair defenseman.

Borgen, 27, was originally selected by the Kraken in the 2021 Expansion Draft from Buffalo. He has since grown into a dependable option for Seattle’s defense, recording a career-high 25 points last season.

However, under new Kraken coach Dan Bylsma, Borgen hasn’t been fully utilized. Moving to New York could provide the opportunity he needs to take his game to the next level. “We’ve had our eyes on Borgen for a while,” Rangers GM Chris Drury said. “He’s a right-shot defenseman with size and a strong defensive presence—exactly what we need on our blue line.”

Contract Dynamics and Future Implications

Kakko’s contract situation likely played a role in this trade. He signed a one-year, $2.4 million deal as a restricted free agent (RFA) last summer and was set to become an unrestricted free agent (UFA) at the end of this season. This made him a tradeable asset for the Rangers, who face tight cap constraints.

Borgen, meanwhile, is in the final year of his contract, earning $2.7 million before becoming a UFA next summer. The Rangers are betting on his ability to solidify their defence as they push for playoff contention.

A Fresh Start for Both Sides

For Kakko, this trade represents a chance to escape the pressure cooker environment of New York and thrive in Seattle, where expectations are lower and opportunities abound. The Kraken, currently on the rise in the Western Conference, add a talented forward with untapped potential.

For the Rangers, Borgen’s physicality and defensive stability are key to shoring up their roster as they recalibrate for the future. The draft picks sweeten the deal, giving them additional flexibility in the coming years.

Will Kakko rediscover his form in Seattle? Will Borgen become the shutdown defenseman New York needs? Both players have plenty to prove, making this trade one to watch as the season unfolds.