The New York Ranger's 22-year-old forward is leaning into his gifts to contribute to the team's offense, no matter where he places in the lineup.
New York Rangers forward Kaapo Kakko has skated in six games since he was activated off of the LTIR on Jan. 13.
Kakko suffered a lower-body injury that kept him sidelined for 21 contests from Nov. 27 - Jan. 14.
No matter where he is placed in the lineup, the young forward is leaning into his toolbox to contribute to the Rangers offense.
Kakko was initially moved off of the top line to skate alongside Nick Bonino and Will Cuylle on the third line on Nov. 7, just a few weeks before he suffered his latest injury.
His lungs were tested as he played alongside Chris Kreider and Mika Zibanejad on the Rangers' top line.
Today, he skated with Jonny Brodszinski and Cuylle again on the team's third line.
"I felt good and excited. That was a new challenge, I knew there were going to be more eyes on [me] with those guys," Kakko told The Hockey News about his experience skating on the first line coming off of the LTIR.
"There was a new chance for me. In the first couple of games, we played better. Lately, we've been losing games...But, that's okay. It's hockey and that happens."
The self-assurance is a positive sign of growth for the 22-year-old forward.
He had previously told The Hockey News on Nov.7, "I know I haven't been that guy I should be out there. So, try to feel better tonight."
Part of that confidence is settling into the gifts he has as a hockey player.
"When you can keep the puck in the offensive zone. I'm the best when I can keep the puck. Maybe pass to someone close to the net or keep the puck and shoot," Kakko said.
"I think I have a good shot so I need to shoot more. Offensive zone things, I think that's my game. When you do those things you feel the more confident, so those are the things I try to do more."
As Chris Druy gears up to solidify the roster, Kaapo Kakko will play a vital role whether he is on the first or the third line.
Kakko is healthy, and confident, and knows what makes his skillset so unique.
Whether he skates on the first or third line, he will have an impact in the Rangers' offensive zone.