Kakko Dealt to Kraken in Shakeup for Struggling Rangers

The New York Rangers sent a jolt through the NHL on Wednesday with a trade that shipped forward Kaapo Kakko to the Seattle Kraken. The 23-year-old, drafted second overall in 2019 by the Rangers, has struggled to find consistent playing time this season, averaging just over 13 minutes per game.

Rangers Receive Borgen and Draft Picks

In exchange for Kakko, the Rangers acquired defenseman Will Borgen along with a third-round and a sixth-round pick in the upcoming 2025 NHL Draft. 1 Borgen, a veteran defenseman, brings experience and leadership to the young Rangers squad. The move signals a potential shift in focus for the Rangers, who are currently mired in a slump after their dominant 2023-2024 season.  

Both Teams Look to Rebound

The trade offers a chance for both teams to address their needs. Kakko gets a fresh start with the Kraken, potentially finding a more prominent role with a team currently battling for a playoff spot. Meanwhile, the Rangers gain a reliable defensive presence in Borgen and draft picks that can help build for the future. Both the Rangers and Kraken will look to use this trade as a springboard to turn their seasons around. The Rangers will look to end their losing streak on the road against the Dallas Stars on Friday, while the Kraken travel to Chicago to face the Blackhawks on Thursday.

 By Vitalina Andrushchenko, Staff Writer