Rangers Star Thinks Kaapo Kakko Will "Shine" Next Season
Photo credit: Bleacher Report
While fans have lost faith in Kaapo Kakko, teammates have belief in the Finnish forward.
Since his 2nd overall pick in 2019, the forward has had an unreal amount of pressure placed upon him to become a star player in the NHL.
It's now year 5 in the NHL, and his time in New York may be at an end sooner rather than later.
There was rumors of Kakko being traded, but instead would sign a one-year $2.4 Million deal and stay in the Big Apple.
Despite the loss of faith in Kakko by fans,
Igor Shesterkin believes that Kakko can still be an impact player for the Rangers.
«You never know what will happen,» Shesterkin said. «What if suddenly a young player will start to shine? Anything is possible. Kaapo Kakko, for example. I am more than sure that this will happen because I see how he's practicing, how he's playing, what kind of personality he has. He just needs the coaches' trust.»
With Kakko having a magnifying glass examining every move on ice, it'll be a big help to have his teammates supporting him. Shesterkin is offering him support, when he needs it the most.
If Kakko is to break out of his slump, he'll need support from teammates and the Rangers organization.
This season could be the last for the 23-year old to prove himself in New York. If he is to earn a long-term contract, this is the year to do so.
Kakko will have to earn it, with the support of the NHL's best goalie along the way.
Previously on NYRangersInsider
POLL |
AOUT 12 | 68 ANSWERS Rangers Star Thinks Kaapo Kakko Will "Shine" Next Season Will Kaapo Kakko bounce back in 2024? |
Yes | 32 | 47.1 % |
No | 36 | 52.9 % |
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