Rangers 2019 1st round Draft pick could be the Flames next target
Photo credit: The Hockey News
Kaapo Kakko may end up being moved, even after the New York Rangers signed him to a new, one-year deal.
According to The Athletic's Julian McKenzie the Calgary Flames are on the hunt for younger players, and Kakko's name popped up on the list of players who piqued the teams interest.
«If the Flames found a consistent line with suitable players for Kakko�and he stays healthy�there's a reward to be found,» McKenzie wrote.
On June 13th, the New York Rangers surprised everyone when they signed Kakko to a 1 year, $2.4 Million dollar contract, instead of allowing him to walk to free agency.
Trade Options
Ironically, Kakko isn't looking to leave New York, but the Flames are pursuing the winger.
With Kakko failing to reach expectations of his Draft placement, 2nd overall in 2019, and failing to reach superstar status, we're unsure if he ever will.
In 300 games with the Rangers, he's scored 117 points( 57 G, 60 A) and has only delivered 9 points in 44 playoff games in a Blueshirt.
He would end up being scratched during the 2024 playoffs, hanging a cloud over Kakko's future in New York.
The Rangers needed cap space to pursue top-end wingers like Jake Guentzel, but were unable to move Kakko, which might explain why he's still on the roster.
«The Rangers are believed to be shopping Kaapo Kakko, who signed his $2.4-million qualifier last week,» Staple and Baugh reported.
He was available to be traded a week prior to free-agency on June 25th, and according to USA Today's Vince Mercogliano, they're still shopping Kakko.
«I'm pretty sure they're dangling Kaapo Kakko and will pursue deals to possibly move him this summer,» Mercogliano said. «I think they're not thrilled with the offers that they've gotten so far which is why he's still on the roster.»
It appears, instead of losing Kakko for nothing, GM Chris Drury wants to be smart and get an asset or prospect in return for the teams former 1st round pick.
Source: Heavy.com
Former Rangers' No. 2 Pick Named Flames Trade Target
Former Rangers' No. 2 Pick Named Flames Trade Target
| POLL | ||
5 JUILLET | 187 ANSWERS Rangers 2019 1st round Draft pick could be the Flames next target Should the Rangers trade Kakko to the Flames? | ||
| Yes | 120 | 64.2 % |
| Immediately | 19 | 10.2 % |
| I'll pack him myself | 48 | 25.7 % |
| List of polls | ||
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