It’s been a quick transition for new Kraken winger Kaapo Kakko, acquired from the New York Rangers on Wednesday for Seattle D-man Will Borgen and two 2025 lower round draft picks.
Speaking to the media after the morning skate in Chicago where the Kraken will take on the Blackhawks on Thursday night, the 23-year-old Finn, who was the 2nd-overall pick at the 2019 NHL Draft, said this change should give him a fresh start.
“Yes, that’s what I’m hoping,” he said. “This year I think there’s been some good games and then kind of bad games also, and it’s a new chance for me. I play there for a long time, just one team. Yes, I’m happy to be here and that’s what I’m thinking also.”
Kakko said he skated with the Kraken this morning, spoke to the coaches, tried to learn the systems in the offensive and defensive zones and on the power play, attended a meeting, and didn’t know which line he would be playing on at even strength.
“It’s been a lot of things, videos, all those things,” he said. “I think it’s good to start going, better to get out there and play a good game and that’s going to be a good start.”
Kraken GM Ron Francis snagged the forward off a dysfunctional Rangers team looking to shake things up. Perfect timing for a Seattle club desperate for some offense.
“I like his size, I like the puck possession, he can play in the offensive zone and I think that will help some of our forwards in that regard,” Francis said late Thursday morning. “So those are probably the two biggest elements, and if he can find some confidence in his game, that would be great as well.”
Kakko has played as a linemate to fellow Kraken Eeli Tolvanen with the Finnish national program.
Since Jamie Oleksiak is already wearing number-24, the number Kakko wore with the Rangers wasn’t an option. Kakko chose 84, a number he’s donned with Finland.
Kakko’s debut with the Kraken gets underway a little after 5:30 pm Pacific time at the United Center in Chicago.
