Trade rumors involving the New York Rangers continue to heat up.
Kaapo Kakkos name has reportedly resurfaced in trade discussions according to TSNs Darren Dreger.
However, Dreger adds that it doesn’t necessarily mean the Rangers will actually give up Kakko given that he is still a young forward with potential.
“Lots of teams are just swirling around Chris Drury and the Rangers, beyond whats been speculated this week with the news of Chris Kreider and Jacob Trouba being available,” Dreger said on Insider Trading. “Im told that Kaapo Kakkos name has resurfaced. Now, its not like the Rangers are willing to give this guy away. They drafted him second overall in 2019.
“Ice time is a bit of an issue. Kakko probably wants a fresh start, but again, if theyre trading out pieces like that, then the return is going to have to be exactly what the New York Rangers are looking for. But undoubtedly, theres interest there.”
While Kakko would certainly garner some interest on the trade market, his value is most likely not high enough to where it would be worth it for the Rangers to pull the trigger on any deal.
The 23-year-old continues to be a staple on the third line this season as well as serving a role on the second unit of the power play and even playing a couple games at center.
Kakko has recorded three goals, nine assists and 12 points in 21 games while averaging 13:14 minutes per game.