The New York Rangers made a surprising move on Wednesday. They traded young forward Kaapo Kakko to the Seattle Kraken. In exchange, they received defenseman Will Borgen, plus a couple of draft picks.
Kakko, just 23 years old, was once a blue-chip prospect. Drafted second overall by the Rangers in 2019, expectations were sky-high. Over his time with the team, he accumulated 61 goals and 131 points in 330 games. However, his recent season was far from stellar. He only managed four goals and 14 points in 30 games.
Rumors surrounding Kakko’s potential departure had circulated for years. His struggles were evident, especially after being a healthy scratch against the St. Louis Blues last Sunday. That decision spoke volumes about his standing on the team. Kakko expressed frustration, indicating he felt lost, saying the only advice he received was to ‘do something.’
The relationship between a player and a franchise can be complicated. For Kakko, who signed a one-year, $2.4 million contract last spring, the journey has been rocky. He needed a change of scenery. And the trade to Seattle offers fresh hope.
On the other hand, Will Borgen comes to the Rangers with promise. General Manager Chris Drury has had his eyes on him for some time. Borgen is a right-shot defenseman. He was selected from Buffalo in the 2021 expansion draft. His post-expansion career showed progress. He even notched a career-high 25 points last season.
Yet, under Coach Dan Byslma with the Kraken, Borgen’s form dipped. Can a switch to New York rejuvenate his game? Playing in a fresh environment can sometimes foster renewed energy. New teams often open new doors, don’t they?
As Borgen joins the Rangers, expectations will be high. He is in the final year of a $2.7 million contract and will be a UFA next summer. There’s pressure for him to perform immediately. The Rangers will want to see his best game.
This trade represents a transformational moment for both teams involved. The Rangers, with their ambitious goals for the season, aim to reinforce their roster. The Kraken, looking to capitalize on young talent, gain a player with potential.
For Kakko, it’s a new beginning in Seattle. A chance to rewrite his narrative and reclaim his spot in the NHL. Such a scenario makes you wonder: how much can a change in location impact one’s career?
As fans of both teams watch and hope, the coming months should provide intriguing stories and maybe even a classic comeback. How will Kakko perform for his new team? And can Borgen step up on the blue line for the Rangers? Only time will tell.
For Kakko, the move is bittersweet. He leaves a city that once embraced him, yet he gains a fresh slate. It’s a journey intertwined with promise and uncertainty. That’s the beauty of sports, isn’t it? Players often journey through ups and downs, reflecting the highs and lows of life itself.
