While Kaapo Kakko hasn't been traded yet, the Rangers are reportedly waiting for the right deal to present itself.
Just because Kaapo Kakko is still on the New York Rangers roster, doesn't mean he will be by opening night.
According to Vince Mercogliano of Lohud, the Rangers have been ‘dangling’ Kakko in trade offers and are waiting for the right deal before pulling the trigger on a trade.
“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.”
Kakko signed his one-year, $2.4 million qualifying offer with the Rangers at the beginning of the offseason, but the team is still reportedly not opposed to the idea of trading the young forward.
The 23-year-old recorded 13 goals, six assists and 19 points this past season. Since being selected with the second overall pick in the 2019 NHL Draft, Kakko hasn’t lived up to the high expectations that were placed upon him, which is why he could use a fresh start.
Despite all of these rumors swirling around, the free agency period has already begun, making it harder for the Rangers to trade Kakko.
There has been no word from Rangers general manager Chris Drury on what he plans to do with Kakko going forward into the future.
