The future and contract status of Kaapo Kakko, a 2019 second-overall pick and restricted free agent, with the New York Rangers are uncertain, thus the Chicago Blackhawks should attempt to acquire him through trade or another method. From the moment the New York Rangers selected him in the draft, Kakko has been called a disappointment. In his five NHL seasons, the 23-year-old has only had one season with 15 or more goals. Even if Kakko’s career thus far has been unsuccessful, the Blackhawks should still want to sign him this offseason.
Possibility of Contract Signing Kaapo Kakko: Low Risk, High Gain
The Chicago Blackhawks could sign a deal with Kaapo Kakko after trading for him as a reclamation project. Even at the age of 23, Kakko has a lot of potential to be a breakthrough candidate. In 82 games during the 2022–2023 season, he recorded 18 goals and 22 assists, which was his finest season to date. Even while statistics aren’t very high considering the expectations that come with being selected second overall, Kaapo can still be a middle-six forward with those kind of numbers.
Despite being a cautious general manager, Kyle Davidson wouldn’t be too concerned about taking on a project. The Hawks must contend with both a pay cap and available roster space. Kaapo Kakko needs a new contract, but since he just finished a season filled with injuries, his AAV shouldn’t be too expensive or have too many requirements. In the event that Kakko struggled, the Hawks might therefore declare victory and move on. Few general managers has the flexibility to choose their rosters. The Hawks roster does, however, have the luxury of such flexibility with Davidson.
How Could Kakko Add Something to the Club?
Kakko is another guy on a very good Rangers team who was easily ignored. Being an offensive player, Kakko needs the chance to establish himself. Kakko was frequently buried in the Rangers’ bottom six and was rarely given time on their power play. It would be simple for the Blackhawks to give Kaapo Kakko the opportunity to demonstrate that he is a reliable player on a value contract.
The Hawks Require Talent
It’s no secret that, aside from players like Connor Bedard, the Hawks’ roster lacks much skill. Kakko is just the kind of player the Blackhawks require on their team. Now, the Hawks can afford to take a gamble on a player like Kakko and hope for the best for him. For a Hawks squad in dire need of reliable forwards, Kakko’s performance would still be advantageous even if it is on par with his 2022–2023 campaign.
Kaapo Kakko is in a position in his career where the Blackhawks could find long-term value in him if he breaks out. In 2005–2006, Chicago conducted a comparable experiment with Patrick Sharp. He became an essential member of the Hawks core after being acquired by the squad. Though there were some differences, there were also many similarities.
Kakko Is System Fit
Kakko would work well with Luke Richardson’s framework. He is a physically strong player with good defensive skills. Another guy that can take advantage of his size is Kakko. To the Hawks’ forward core would be a welcome addition is his two-way game, which impressed evaluators when he was picked. Kakko is a guy that could work under Richardson’s hard-working style, which demands consistent great defense.
Many people view Kakko as a “good, not great player.” He still has time to change the course of his career and establish himself as a reliable player in the top six. This offseason, Kyle Davidson ought to be considering his options. One of them need to be bringing in Kaapo Kakko on a deal that benefits the team.
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