The Sabres are continuing to be linked to this Rangers forward.
The Buffalo Sabres are starting to browse the trade market for talent to help their roster. It is understandable, as they are currently sporting a 13-year playoff drought and are aggressively aiming to change that for the 2024-25 campaign.
According to The Fourth Period, the Sabres are once again linked to New York Rangers forward Kaapo Kakko.
The Sabres were notably connected to Kakko nearing the 2024 NHL Trade Deadline, but the 2019 second-overall pick stayed put. Even after signing his one-year deal earlier this offseason, Kakko is still being used as "trade bait," as The Fourth Period also noted.
It is understandable that the Sabres are in the mix for Kakko again. While he has yet to develop into the star many envisioned he would be, there is still time for him to improve his game. He is still just 23 years old, and a change of scenery may do him justice.
Kakko struggled in 2023-24, posting 13 goals, six assists, and a plus-6 rating in 61 regular-season games. He then followed that up with just one goal, one assist, and a minus-4 rating in 15 playoff games. While it was an all-around tough year for him, he also had 18 goals and 40 points in 82 games just back in 2022-23. He could get back there, especially if he stays healthy.
If the Sabres acquired Kakko, he would be a potential fit in their middle six. In addition, he would also provide them with another option for their power play. This is especially true if he finds his previous scoring touch in 2024-25.
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