Former New York Rangers First-Round Pick On The Verge Of Landing Massive Contract Extension
Photo credit: Fox News
Former Rangers winger Kaapo Kakko has found success in Seattle, with the Kraken. Is he destined to sign an extension, with GM Ron Francis and stick around long-term?
The New York Rangers may have made a huge mistake when they traded Kaapo Kakko to the Seattle Kraken.
While they received Will Borgen, and two-picks in return, Kakko has found a new home in Seattle.
In the last ten games for the Kraken, he's been a point-per-game player, scoring 10 points (3 G, 7 A) on the team's top line with Jaden Schwartz, and Matty Beniers.
People are upset, and have a right to be.
Since his exit from the organization, he's been on fire.
"Kaapo is playing on the Kraken first line," Dreyfuss reports. "His time on the ice is up almost four minutes per game (17:02) compared with 13:17 with the Rangers.
"He's flying and his passing, especially in open ice, has been sublime. The coaching staff and teammates expressed trust in him and in boosting his confidence and they have rewarded him."
"He's flying and his passing, especially in open ice, has been sublime. The coaching staff and teammates expressed trust in him and in boosting his confidence and they have rewarded him."
Kaako's found a way to produce at a level we wish we could have seen in New York. This season with the Rangers he played 20 games and only scored 14 points (4 G, 10 A) on the third line here.
It's amazing what a difference in coaching philosophy can make, as Dan Byslma has found himself a new high-end producer with Kakko.
He's received more responsibility, and more minutes in Seattle, and it's paying off.
Kakko is slotted on the first line and the 2nd power-play unit with Brandon Montour and Shane Wright.
It seems like we can end the bust allegations once and for all. Whatever the Kraken does decide to pay Kakko, it'll be well-earned.
Dreyfuss: "Kaapo's presence has boosted team scoring as well. Without him it was 2.88 goals per game. With him it's up to 3.15 goals per game."
"He's worked his way into the team's future plans," Dreyfuss concludes, "and a new contract is a near-certainty!"
"He's worked his way into the team's future plans," Dreyfuss concludes, "and a new contract is a near-certainty!"
For the Kraken to retain Kakko's rights, they'll have to tender a $2.4 million qualifying offer.
Which he's more than earned.
In 30 games played this season, he's scored 24 points (10 G, 14 A).
Previously on NYRangersInsider
MUST READ
TRENDING NOW
