The Seattle Kraken took proactive measures as the NHL's holiday roster freeze approached, pulling off a key trade with the New York Rangers to acquire right winger Kaapo Kakko. The deal, announced on December 19, 2024, involved Kakko heading to Seattle in exchange for defenseman Will Borgen, along with third- and sixth-round draft picks for the 2025 NHL Draft. This trade marks the end of Kakko's tumultuous tenure with the Rangers, who selected him second overall during the 2019 NHL Entry Draft.
This season, the 23-year-old Finnish forward struggled with form, registering only four goals and 14 points over 30 games. Kakko's limited output paired with his status as a healthy scratch against the St. Louis Blues earlier this month raised alarms about his future with the club. Despite being predicted to be among hockey’s bright young talents, he has faced challenges meeting the expectations tied to his draft position.
The Rangers franchise desperately needed to inject some change following dismal performances; the team has managed to win only three of its last 14 matches, creating mounting pressure on General Manager Chris Drury to make impactful decisions. Kakko's trade was seen as the most straightforward move, allowing for potential rebuilding without drastic overhauls. “This trade can alter the team's chemistry,” commented analysts, noting this pivotal moment may be the start of a needed reset for New York.
For Kakko, this change might be just what he needs. Gaining clarity on his role at the Kraken could revive his stalled career. “Kaapo is a young dynamic forward who brings skill and offense to our club. We're excited to have him join us,” said Kraken GM Ron Francis. By moving away from New York's intense spotlight, Kakko might discover new opportunities for growth and success, particularly as he is expected to take on additional responsibilities with his new team.
For the Kraken, acquiring Kakko could help address their struggles after dropping three of four games leading up to the trade. The team, currently positioned sixth in the Pacific Division, has scored one goal or less five times this season. Kakko provides them with added firepower on the right wing, particularly with captain Jordan Eberle currently sidelined with injuries.
Meanwhile, Borgen, who has spent his time mainly on Seattle's third defensive pairing, might find renewed purpose with the Rangers. With two points and over 30 games this season, he is not going to be mistaken for top NFL star potential, but at 27, he still has the chance to flourish as a solid defender under new management. Although Borgen has averaged about 15:12 minutes on the ice this season, his presence is expected to improve the Rangers’ defensive depth.
Upon being traded, Kakko expressed surprise at being sent out and reflected on his feelings about being benched. “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 candidly shared with the media. His statements underline the frustrations he faced during his time with the Rangers, capturing the sentiments of many young players who struggle to find footing during early career challenges.
This move marks another shake-up for the Rangers, as it follows their earlier trade of captain Jacob Trouba to the Anaheim Ducks. With the Rangers now sitting at .500 and chasing relevance going forward, the questions arise about who else might be on the block as teams sharpen their aim for the playoff stretch and work to refine their rosters.
The transaction also reflects the dynamics of the NHL trade space as the holiday roster freeze quickly approaches. The market is expected to see more movement from teams desperate to offload poor fits or adjust their line-ups for successful runs heading closer toward March's trade deadline.
The Rangers will now focus on recalibrations and potential future trades, and Kakko, joining the Kraken, has another chance to garner success far from the pressures of New York. There’s hope for growth and creativity as both teams aim to reclaim their momentum after recent struggles.
