CHICAGO — Kaapo Kakko is now eager to seize his chance with the Seattle Kraken, leaving behind a challenging end to his time with the New York Rangers. On Thursday, he took part in his first morning skate with Seattle in anticipation of his inaugural game with the team. During his debut, Seattle faced a tough 3-1 defeat against Chicago as they kicked off a four-game road trip, but Kakko was on the ice for more than 13 minutes.

Kakko is looking to enhance the team’s offensive output, especially as they have struggled to score just two goals across their previous three games. “I believe I excel in the offensive zone; that’s where my strength lies,” he remarked prior to the matchup against the Blackhawks. “I aim to create plays and find scoring opportunities. However, I also take pride in my defensive abilities as a two-way player. That’s my game at the moment, and I’m looking to contribute in that regard.”

The 23-year-old forward was traded to Seattle on Wednesday in exchange for defenseman Will Borgen, along with a third-round pick in 2025 and a sixth-round pick in 2026. Borgen, who is 28 years old, had been part of the Kraken since their beginning but Seattle felt it was an opportune time to bring in Kakko. “Acquiring a player who was picked second overall, not just as a teenager but as a player who has matured, is thrilling for our roster,” coach Dan Bylsma expressed. “He’s a formidable, powerful forward that we’re excited to integrate into our group.”

Kakko was selected by the Rangers as the second overall pick in the 2019 draft and played a crucial role in leading them to the Eastern Conference final last spring. Despite signing a one-year contract as a restricted free agent in June, he found himself amidst ongoing trade speculation. Following a healthy scratch from New York’s lineup against St. Louis last Sunday, he voiced his surprise at coach Peter Laviolette’s decision, feeling it was easier to bench the younger player.

Just a day later, he was officially part of a new team. “I was frustrated; anyone who isn’t able to play feels that way. I wanted to be on the ice as well,” he explained. “But that’s in the past. I’m here with a new team and focusing on the present. There are many good people here, and this is an exciting new opportunity.”

The Rangers have faced significant difficulties, losing 11 of their last 14 games leading into a contest against Dallas, including five out of seven since their captain Jacob Trouba was traded to Anaheim. Kakko acknowledged the struggles of the Rangers, calling them “a great organization” while admitting the past month has been tough for everyone, especially without a leader like Trouba.

“You lose a strong presence like your captain. He was a notable figure everyone respected,” Kakko reflected. “When the team is on a losing streak, it weighs heavily on everyone. Players want to contribute and achieve victories, making it a challenging situation.”

This season, Kakko has netted four goals and provided ten assists in 31 games. Last year, he set personal bests with 18 goals and 22 assists over a full 82-game schedule. The Kraken have played without their captain Jordan Eberle, who underwent pelvic surgery last month, and Kakko could play a significant role in filling that void.

“We’re always in search of players who can leverage their size and skirmish in front of the net,” stated Kraken general manager Ron Francis. “Reflecting back to his draft year, it’s evident why the Rangers selected him second overall. He demonstrated exceptional talent at that time, and for reasons unknown, it hasn’t fully materialized for him since.”

Francis expressed hope that the change of scenery will bring out the best in Kakko. In Seattle, he has chosen to wear number 84, as current defenseman Jamie Oleksiak wears number 24. Kakko does have prior experience with some team members, having played together with Eeli Tolvanen during Finland’s victory at the 2019 World Junior Championship.

“Kaapo is an incredible player,” Tolvanen remarked. “He’s a significant presence on the ice with excellent hand skills and scoring capabilities. I believe he will become an essential asset for our team.”