Who is Kaapo Kakko and what can he bring to the Kraken?

The Seattle Kraken made waves by acquiring Kaapo Kakko, a player who once dazzled as the second overall pick in the 2019 NHL Draft. This midseason move offers the 23-year-old Finnish forward a chance to thrive in a new environment, and for Kraken fans, an exciting opportunity to see what untapped potential Kakko can bring to the team.

Who is Kaapo Kakko?

Kaapo Kakko entered the NHL with sky-high expectations. Selected by the New York Rangers just behind Jack Hughes, Kakko was lauded for his elite playmaking skills, puck control, and ability to thrive in high-pressure situations. Before joining the NHL, he made history at the 2019 IIHF World Championship by helping Finland capture gold, becoming the youngest player to score six goals in the tournament.

Kakko’s NHL debut came with its share of growing pains. While his raw talent was evident, consistency and confidence took time to develop. Over the past few seasons, he’s shown flashes of brilliance, especially in his ability to protect the puck and create scoring opportunities. Despite these strengths, Kakko often found himself in a limited role, particularly this season, where his minutes were reduced despite steady production.

NHL journey so far

Kakko’s six seasons with the Rangers were marked by gradual progress but also challenges. In 2023-24, he posted a career-high 40 points (18 goals, 22 assists), showcasing his ability to contribute as a reliable middle-six forward. However, the last two seasons Kaapo has seen a dip in his ice time, with the Rangers opting to prioritize other forwards. Despite this reduced role, Kakko has remained efficient, tallying a respectable 14 points in 30 games this season.

Advanced analytics highlight Kakko’s ability to drive play. His strong possession numbers and smart decision-making in the offensive zone suggest he has more to give when utilized effectively. For a Kraken team looking to bolster its scoring depth, Kakko’s skill set aligns perfectly with their needs.

What Kakko can provide for the Kraken

Seattle’s offensive struggles have been a persistent storyline this season, making Kakko’s arrival a timely boost. At 6-foot-3 and 200 pounds, Kakko combines size with finesse, excelling at maintaining puck possession in tight spaces and setting up teammates for quality chances. His versatility allows him to slot into various roles, whether as a winger on a scoring line or as a power play contributor.

One intriguing possibility is pairing Kakko with Chandler Stephenson, a line combination that could bolster the Kraken’s offense while maintaining defensive responsibility. Kakko’s ability to find space and serve as a scoring threat complements Stephenson’s playmaking skills, creating opportunities for both players to excel. With forwards like André Burakovsky still struggling to find consistency this season, there is a clear opening for Kakko to secure a top-six role and contribute meaningfully to Seattle’s success.

Under head coach Dan Bylsma, the Kraken have an opportunity to unlock Kakko’s potential by giving him consistent top-six minutes and special teams responsibilities. This change in usage could be the key to reigniting his offensive output and helping him develop into the impactful player scouts envisioned during his draft year.

Season outlook

As the Kraken navigate the middle of the 2024-25 season, Kakko’s integration into the lineup will be a storyline to watch. Fans should expect him to bring creativity and poise to Seattle’s offense while adding much-needed depth to the forward group. If given the right opportunities, Kakko has the potential to not only meet but exceed expectations in his new home.

For a Kraken team seeking to establish consistency and climb the standings, Kaapo Kakko represents more than just a roster addition. He embodies the hope of a brighter future and a commitment to building around young, talented players. Kraken fans, get ready to welcome a promising new face who’s ready to make an impact.