NHL: New York Rangers at Carolina Hurricanes - Source: Imagn — Kaapo Kakko breaks his silence on demanding trade from NY Rangers. (Image Source: Imagn)

Kaapo Kakko breaks his silence on demanding trade from NY Rangers after healthy scratch drama

Modified Dec 20, 2024 04:18 GMT

Seattle Kraken center Kaapo Kakko has broken his silence about his trade from the New York Rangers, following his unexpected healthy scratch.

The Rangers made the surprising decision to scratch Kaako during their 3-2 loss to the St. Louis Blues, leading to frustration from the Finn. He criticized coach Peter Laviolette for the decision, which added to doubts surrounding his future with the team.

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Ultimately, Kaapo Kakko was traded to the Seattle Kraken on Wednesday, marking a new chapter in his career. Kaako didn't provide a definitive answer when asked whether he requested a trade, but it was clear that the topic had been at least discussed.

"There were maybe talks about that. I always loved my time in NY, all those years, but especially after last year, it was a bad year for me. I wasn't good enough, to be honest, but I also felt like a lot of games I could have got on the ice more to show what I can do. ... We talked about it a little bit," he said.

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Kaapo Kakko doesn't believe that his recent comments directly led to his trade from New York. He suggested that the team's overall performance was lacking, which contributed to the decision to make changes.

"I don’t know. I don’t think it’s because of that. The team was playing not well enough. There are a lot of good players over there, (but) they need to do something. I kind of knew something was going to happen, and I knew it might be me."

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As part of the trade, the New York Rangers received defenseman Will Borgen and two picks in the upcoming 2025 NHL draft.

Kaapo Kakko optimistic about new start with Seattle Kraken

Following Thursday's morning skate, Kakko expressed optimism about his new opportunity with the Seattle Kraken. He's hopeful to receive ample chances to showcase his skills and contribute to the team.

"I hope I’m going to get a chance over here,” Kakko said via NHL.com. “I think that’s what the coach is telling me here, just play your game and they’re going to trust me. That’s all that I need. What I’m going to do out there is on me. I’m excited about that and ready to get out there and get things going.”

Kaapo Kakko played for six seasons and 330 games with the New York Rangers after they drafted him No. 2 overall in the 2019 NHL Draft. This season, he has accumulated 14 points through four goals and 10 assists.