In a stunning move, the New York Rangers traded Kaapo Kakko to the Seattle Kraken on Wednesday, signaling the end of Kakko's tenure in New York. The Rangers receive defenseman Will Borgen, as well as a 2025 third-round and sixth-round draft pick in return. Kakko, the No. 2 overall pick from the 2019 NHL Draft, spent six years with the Rangers, amassing 61 goals and 131 points in 330 games.

Despite flashes of brilliance, Kakko's career has been marked by inconsistency. This season, the 23-year-old forward recorded 14 points (4 goals, 10 assists) in 30 games, but his performance dipped in recent weeks, leading to frustration after being made a healthy scratch against the St. Louis Blues. His struggles, combined with the Rangers' overall slump, led to his departure.

The Impact on Kakko's Future in Seattle
In Seattle, Kakko will get a fresh start, and the Kraken hope a change of scenery will help him reach his potential. Kakko’s best season came in 2022-23, when he posted 18 goals and 40 points, but he’s yet to break the 40-point barrier in any other season. Seattle adds another offensive weapon to a group that is right in the middle of the pack.

The move may also help Kakko find more stability, as he’ll likely avoid the yo-yoing between the third and bottom six in Seattle’s lineup. Can he finally reach the potential expected of a No. 2 pick? Only time will tell.

What the Rangers Get in Return
In exchange, the Rangers acquire Will Borgen, a 27-year-old defenseman with a physical edge. Borgen has been a solid contributor for Seattle, posting a career-high 25 points last season. While his numbers have dipped this season, he adds defensive depth for New York, especially after the Jacob Trouba trade and injuries to K’Andre Miller.

Borgen, who is in the final year of his contract, will bolster a Rangers blue line that is currently struggling. This move also gives Victor Mancini a chance to return to the AHL for more development.

Looking Ahead: Both Teams Focus on the Present
For Seattle, acquiring Kakko represents a low-risk, high-reward gamble that could pay off if the winger finds his form. Meanwhile, the Rangers are focused on reshaping their roster for the present, getting back some valuable draft picks as they aim to stay competitive in the tight Metropolitan Division.

This trade is part of a larger pattern of moves for the 2019 NHL Draft class, where several high picks have already been moved around the league. Will Kakko be able to thrive in Seattle, or is this the final chapter in his underwhelming stint as a top pick?

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