New York Rangers forward Kaapo Kakko has been mentioned in trade rumors, with one fan-created proposal on PuckPedia suggesting a potential trade with the Detroit Red Wings.
In this hypothetical deal, the Red Wings would receive:
– Kaapo Kakko
– A 2025 fifth-round pick
The Rangers would acquire:
– Andrew Copp
This trade idea, created using PuckPedia’s interactive PuckGM tool, offers an interesting scenario. The Red Wings would benefit from adding Kakko, a 23-year-old forward who would enhance their youthful roster, which includes talents like Lucas Raymond and Moritz Seider.
Kakko, selected second overall in the 2019 draft, might also see an expanded role in Detroit, providing him with more opportunities than he currently has with the Rangers, who are serious Stanley Cup contenders.
For the Rangers, re-acquiring Andrew Copp, whom they previously traded for from the Winnipeg Jets on March 21, 2022, could be advantageous. Copp, who signed a five-year, $28.125 million contract with the Red Wings as a free agent, would return to New York. He could contribute as a solid middle-six forward, adding scoring ability, size, and physicality. Last season with Detroit, Copp scored 13 goals and added 20 assists for a total of 33 points in 79 games.
Red Wings Expect to Compete for Playoff Spot
Detroit narrowly missed the playoffs last season, but with key additions like Vladimir Tarasenko in free agency, GM Steve Yzerman is optimistic about their chances.
On July 4, Yzerman commented, “I believe we’re now in the mix of teams that have a shot at making the playoffs. If we stay healthy, receive strong goaltending, and some players exceed expectations, we could make it. Alternatively, we might fall short by just a point in the final game of the season. That’s how close it can be. Looking at our current roster compared to last year’s, there are differences. It seems like a better fit with more defined roles for the players.”
The Red Wings have not reached the playoffs since the 2015-16 season, ending a 25-season streak of postseason appearances that began in 1990.
Kakko Frustrated With Role With Rangers
Kakko was anticipated to play a major role in the Rangers’ offense after being selected second overall in the 2019 draft.
Despite these expectations, the Finnish forward has had difficulty maintaining consistency and was occasionally sidelined during both the regular season and the playoffs.
Following the season, Kakko expressed his desire to participate in every game and to have a larger role with the team.
“The playoffs were different,” Kakko said, according to NHL.com. “Of course, everyone wants to be on the ice. … I wasn’t happy being out of the lineup, but I still wanted the team to win. I hoped we’d continue winning and that I’d eventually get back into the lineup. I wasn’t satisfied, and I think everyone in the room feels the same way—they all want to play.”
Kakko appeared in just 61 games, scoring 13 goals and adding 6 assists for a total of 19 points.
