The role of Kaapo Kakko has increased dramatically since the New York Rangers exchanged him for the Seattle Kraken.
After having filled a third -line role in New York, while he was even scratched a few times, Kakko suddenly plays in the first line of the Kraken alongside Matty Beniers and Jaden Schwartz.
His average ice age went from 13:17 minutes to 15:50 minutes after the change of the environment, which is quite shocking in view of his stagnant progression at the Rangers.
Kraken-coach Dan Bylsma praised Kakko because he was impressed by the young attacker.
“I think with the change of environment for Kakko it has been a chance for him to have a new start, to get a good chance with good players to set his game … with Matty Beniers, with Jaden Schwartz to that Line, they remained our best line. You can see what kind of player he can be, “Bylsma told NHL Network.
“He is large, can hold the puck in the attack zone, creates space for his line fellows and is good and large around the net. That means scoring and playing in and around there. The figures are quite impressive for what they have achieved in about ten games. “
The 23-year-old scored four goals, nine assists and thirteen points in sixteen games with De Kraken.