Former Rangers forward Kaapo Kakko receives major promotion with the Seattle Kraken
Photo credit: Blueline Station
Since being traded to the Seattle Kraken, Kaapo Kakko has found a new home on the team's first line. Could this be another sign of the Rangers' mismanagement or not letting him play to his potential?
The New York Rangers and former 1st-round pick, Kaapo Kakko's relationship was severed this season.
They'd trade him to the Seattle Kraken, and he'd jump from the third-line he was serving on with the Rangers to being utilized differently by Head Coach Dan Byslma.
In Seattle, he's been a staple on the team's first line, and 2nd power-play unit, a sign of trust from Byslma.
His average ice time went from 13:17 minutes to 15:50 minutes following the change of scenery, which is pretty shocking given his stagnating progression with the Rangers.
Not only that, but his time on ice increased, and Byslma would speak highly of the former Rangers forward.
«I think with the change of scenery for Kakko, it has been an opportunity for him to have a fresh start, get a good opportunity with good players to establish his game With Matty Beniers, with Jaden Schwartz on that line, they've continued to be our best line. You can see what kind of player he can be,» Bylsma said on NHL Network.
«He's a big body, can hold onto the puck in the offensive zone, create space for his linemates and he's good and big around the net. That means scoring goals and making plays in and around there. The numbers are pretty impressive for what they've done in 10 games or so as a line.»
«He's a big body, can hold onto the puck in the offensive zone, create space for his linemates and he's good and big around the net. That means scoring goals and making plays in and around there. The numbers are pretty impressive for what they've done in 10 games or so as a line.»
Kakko has completely transformed his game in Seattle. He's played 16 games with the Kraken this season. He's scored 13 points (4 G, 9 A). Did the Kraken win this trade?
In Seattle Kakko no longer has the burden of expectations on his shoulders. He plays to his strengths which coach Byslma plays to.
While Will Borgen has been helpful on defense, and instrumental in Rangers' wins has he been as helpful as Kakko for his new team?
| POLL | ||
JANVIER 25 | 1363 ANSWERS Former Rangers forward Kaapo Kakko receives major promotion with the Seattle Kraken Is forward Kaapo Kakko better since he;s been traded to the Seattle Kraken? | ||
| Yes | 1260 | 92.4 % |
| No | 103 | 7.6 % |
| List of polls | ||
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