The Calgary Flames may be the frontrunners to land Kaapo Kakko. According to Julian McKenzie of The Athletic, [https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5537582/2024/07/04/rossi-zegras-protas-kakko-trade/] the Flames are a team to watch on the trade market in pursuit of young talent including Kakko if the New York Rangers decide to trade him. “If the Flames found a consistent line with suitable players for Kakko—and he stays healthy—there’s a reward to be found,” McKenzie wrote. [https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5537582/2024/07/04/rossi-zegras-protas-kakko-trade/] With most free agents already signed, it’s unclear if the Rangers will trade Kakko before the start of the season. Sean Avery Illustrates Rangers Perfect Shift However, Vince Mercogliano of Lohud reports [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/new-york-rangers/latest-news/rangers-reportedly-dangling-kaapo-kakko-in-trade-discussions] 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.” The 2019 second overall pick could use a fresh start despite not actively seeking a new beginning elsewhere. Kakko signed his one-year, $2.4 million qualifying offer shortly after the Rangers were eliminated from the playoffs, meaning he would either now be easier to move on an affordable contract or return to New York for one more season and prove that he could be a valuable asset for the Blueshirts. This past season, Kakko recorded 13 goals, six assists and 19 points in 61 games while averaging 13:16 minutes of ice time. Being that he is still on the roster, all signs are pointing that Kakko will be with the Rangers on opening night in October, but a lot can happen between now and then.
