Kaapo Kakko’s journey from the Big Apple to the Emerald City has been a roller coaster of opportunity. Once a highly touted prospect for the New York Rangers, the young Finn often found himself squeezed out of top-line roles and prime minutes. Now, as a member of the Seattle Kraken, he’s reminding hockey fans why he was a second-overall pick back in 2019—and why his future glows brightest when he’s given space to spread his wings.
In the brand-new 4 Nations Face-Off, Kakko had to wait a bit longer than he’d like to make his mark. After being a healthy scratch in Finland’s tournament opener—a tough 6-1 loss to Team USA—he finally hit the ice against Sweden. From the outset, his play was electric. In the closing minutes of regulation, Kaapo assisted on the game-tying goal, feeding Aleksander Barkov in front of the net. For a second, there was some confusion about who actually scored, as both Kakko and Barkov reached for the puck simultaneously. Ultimately, Barkov got credit, but the message was clear: when Kakko is paired with elite linemates like Barkov and Mikko Rantanen, he can be a difference-maker.
KAAPO KAKKO TIES IT UP!! 🇫🇮 #4Nations pic.twitter.com/4Z0JjxB1gk
— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) February 15, 2025
Proof of potential on the international stage
The excitement for Kraken fans comes from seeing Kakko excel in a role that’s been elusive for Seattle: a mainstay on the top line. When the Kraken traded for him, they needed a forward capable of generating offense consistently—someone who could shoulder top-six minutes without fading into the background. Ever since he joined the squad, he’s done exactly that. Fans have watched him win battles along the boards, drive aggressively to the net, and showcase a skill set that meshes seamlessly with skilled playmakers. It’s not easy to waltz into a new locker room and immediately assume a leading role, but Kakko has embraced that challenge.
His New York tenure always felt like it was teetering on the brink of a breakout, but the Rangers’ depth and established stars meant Kakko had limited opportunities to shine. In Seattle, a growing franchise with evolving lines and an openness to experimentation, he’s been able to capitalize on an expanded role. You can see it in his improved confidence: he wants the puck on his stick, and he’s not afraid to be creative.
Opportunity for redemption
Looking ahead to tonight’s contest against Canada, Finland has an enormous chance at redemption. If they can secure a regulation win, they’ll punch their ticket to a championship rematch against Team USA. The first meeting ended in a 6-1 blowout for the Americans—a game in which Kakko never left the bench as a healthy scratch. Should Finland advance, the script could look very different this time around with Kakko now in the lineup, giving them a spark they sorely lacked in that opening contest. With the momentum gained from his strong performance against Sweden, Kakko’s presence could tip the scales and help Finland flip the narrative on their earlier setback.
Meanwhile, the 4 Nations Face-Off itself has brought a breath of fresh air to the hockey calendar. Rather than another skills competition or a laid-back exhibition, this international tournament provides serious bragging rights. NHL players haven’t been able to compete in the Olympics since 2014, so there’s added pride on the line when they suit up for their countries. Old friends are reunited, new chemistry is formed, and fans get to see these stars in a competitive setting that still feels festive and fun.
Kakko’s performance in the 4 Nations Face-Off serves as a loud reminder: he can elevate his game when surrounded by top-tier talent—and he deserves those valuable minutes. For Seattle fans, this is precisely what the franchise has been craving. If he continues to shine on the Kraken’s top line and proves himself in high-stakes international play, there’s every reason to believe he’ll keep growing into the star many expected him to be in New York.
Right now, the signs are undeniably positive. Kakko is delivering at both ends of the rink, demonstrating that his transition to a new team and new city hasn’t dampened his potential. In fact, it may be exactly what he needed. If his play in this tournament is any indication, the Kraken have landed themselves a top-six gem—one who could become a franchise cornerstone for years to come.