The Lightning could use more help on the wing and should target this Rangers forward because of it.
The Tampa Bay Lightning have had an eventful offseason, but they should not be done yet. When looking at their current roster, it is clear that they would benefit by adding another middle-six winger. When looking at the names floating around in the rumor mill, New York Rangers forward Kaapo Kakko stands out.
Kakko, 23, has been in the rumor mill since the 2024 NHL Trade Deadline, but the Rangers elected not to move him during the campaign. This could change during the summer, as they are in win-now mode and looking to upgrade their roster. Kakko has also struggled to hit his potential in New York, and a change of scenery may benefit him at this juncture.
If the Lightning acquired Kakko, he would be a clear option for their second line. It is not a secret that the Lightning's depth at right wing is not the strongest. Bringing in a young forward with promise like Kakko could help change things.
Kakko appeared in 61 games last season for the Rangers, posting 13 goals, 19 points, and a plus-6 rating. While it was a down year for him, it is important to note that he dealt with injury trouble. In addition, he is a prime bounce-back candidate, as he had 18 goals and 40 points in 82 games just back in 2022-23.
Ultimately, the Lightning are in a position to take a shot on a young forward with solid upside like Kakko. He may take that next step with a new opportunity, and he could thrive having stars like Nikita Kucherov, Brayden Point, Jake Guentzel, and Brandon Hagel to work with. A trade would likely need to start with a 2025 second-round pick and prospect.