NHL: Seattle Kraken at New York Rangers - Source: Imagn

Top 3 Kaapo Kakko trade destinations: Best landing spots for Rangers forward after healthy scratch ruffles trade rumors

Modified Dec 16, 2024 04:49 GMT

The New York Rangers raised eyebrows when they designated forward Kaapo Kakko as a healthy scratch for Sunday's game against the St. Louis Blues on the road.

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The Rangers were already without sniper Artemi Panarin, who missed the game with an undisclosed ailment. They were also missing K'Andre Miller, who was recently injured and placed on injured reserve.

But with Kakko being named a healthy scratch by head coach Peter Laviolette, speculation began pouring in that he could soon be on the move from the struggling Rangers, who have already made a major trade in recent days.

Captain Jacob Trouba was sent to the Anaheim Ducks after weeks of speculation. Chris Kreider's name has also been included in trade rumors.

Kakko, who was the second overall pick of the Rangers in the 2019 NHL Draft, has played in 29 games in the 2024-25 season and scored four goals with 10 assists. He's also a pending restricted free agent when this season ends, with a cap hit of $2.4 million.

If general manager Chris Drury decides to include Kaapo Kakko in what could soon be a fire sale of players, what destinations would make the most sense for him?

Top 3 Kaapo Kakko trade destinations

#1. Anaheim Ducks

A team that has lost forward Trevor Zegras for the next several weeks and has an opening in its lineup, Kakko could be the second big acquisition by the Ducks in recent weeks. They've already swung a trade for former New York Rangers captain Jacob Trouba.

The Ducks are in the middle of a difficult rebuild with little to lose. Kakko and his expiring contract could play the next several months with the team to gauge if it is a good fit for a longer-term deal.

#2. Pittsburgh Penguins

The Penguins have brought in multiple new faces over the years as they've attempted to stay competitive for the remaining years of future Hall of Fame captain Sidney Crosby's career.

A chance to play with players like Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, Bryan Rust and Michael Bunting could help revitalize Kaapo Kakko's career.

#3. Calgary Flames

The Flames lost first-year forward Anthony Mantha for the remainder of the season after he tore his ACL.

With ample cap space, the Flames could easily take on Kakko's AAV of $2.4 million. He would also provide a new face in the lineup that needs a change of scenery and could benefit from new linemates.

While Kaapo Kakko wouldn't be expected to produce major offensive numbers, he could thrive in a depth role with Calgary.