The New York Rangers’ decision to scratch forward Kaapo Kakko for Sunday’s game against the St. Louis Blues has created curiosity among NHL insiders and analysts. Most believe Kakko wasn’t playing poorly enough to deserve being scratched, which has led to speculation that his benching is trade-related and not necessarily performance-based. With the NHL trade freeze around the corner and the Rangers reportedly “open for business,” the timing has reignited trade rumors surrounding the 23-year-old winger. Are the Rangers having trade talks with other teams about Kakko? Or, was this a message to spark the player?
Kakko, who signed a one-year, $2.4 million deal in June, is eligible to become a restricted free agent next summer. In 29 games this season, he has recorded four goals and 10 assists, contributing 14 points. Despite the modest numbers, Kakko has generally avoided criticism for his performance, making his benching all the more perplexing.
Rangers insiders like Vince Mercogliano commented, “If you’re going down the list of guys who have disappointed with their effort lately, I’d name at least a half dozen before I got to Kakko.” Larry Brooks of the New York Post echoed the sentiment, calling the move puzzling: “This cannot simply be a run-of-the-mill healthy scratch.”
Because Kakko has been previously mentioned as a potential trade chip as the Rangers explored roster shake-ups, there could be an imminent deal ready to go down over the next couple of days. If the Rangers feel they have a trade partner and a deal in the works, risking Kakko to injury wouldn’t have been wise.
Who Might Be Looking at Kakko in Trade Talks?
The Fourth Period points out that several teams have been linked to Kakko in the past. Among them are the Montreal Canadiens, Calgary Flames, Pittsburgh Penguins, San Jose Sharks, and Anaheim Ducks.
Whether this scratch is a simple lineup decision or a prelude to a trade, everyone is watching the Rangers and what might unfold over the next 24-36 hours.
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