Trade rumors regarding the New York Rangers continue to increase.
According to TSN’s Darren Dreger, the name Kaapo Kakko has reportedly resurfaced in trade talks.
However, Dreger adds that this doesn’t necessarily mean the Rangers will actually give up on Kakko, as he is still a young forward with potential.
“A lot of teams are swirling around Chris Drury and the Rangers, beyond what has been speculated this week with the news that Chris Kreider and Jacob Trouba are available,” Dreger said on Insider Trading. “I’m told Kaapo Kakko’s name has resurfaced. It’s not like the Rangers are willing to give this guy away. They drafted him second overall in 2019.
“Ice age is a bit of a problem. Kakko probably wants a fresh start, but again, if they trade pieces like that, the return will have to be exactly what the New York Rangers are looking for. But there is undoubtedly interest.”
While Kakko would certainly generate some interest on the trade market, his value is most likely not high enough to be worth it for the Rangers to pull the trigger on a deal.
The 23-year-old remains a fixture on the third line this season, also playing a role in the second unit of the power play and even playing a few games at center.
Kakko scored three goals, nine assists and 12 points in 21 games while averaging 13:14 minutes per game.
