Can Kaapo Kakko Deliver for Rangers?

Kaapo Kakko is once again at the center of discussions as we ponder his potential breakout season.

Entering his sixth NHL season, there’s a noticeable shift in Kakko’s attitude and approach that might ease some pressure off him. This year’s training camp feels different for him.

After their loss to the Florida Panthers in the Eastern Conference Final last spring, both Kakko and Peter Laviolette took responsibility for Kakko’s lack of offensive output. He had suffered a severe leg injury in November 2023, causing him to miss 21 games. Before the injury, he had only scored three goals and one assist in 20 games on what was considered the Rangers’ top line before the Panarin-Trocheck-Lafreniere line emerged. “All those games we played together — it never worked out that well,” Kakko said before heading home for summer break. “If you’re playing those minutes, you have to score some goals also.”

Despite a disappointing season, Kakko’s attitude remained positive. Laviolette commented, “I didn’t find it with him; I think he’s a good player that we were all hoping would take another step.” In June, Kakko signed a one-year $2.4 million deal with the Rangers while expressing his love for New York and optimism about winning chances.

Training Camp Dynamics:

Kakko mentioned they didn’t talk much during summer or early training camp due to many players being around. He has been playing with Fil Chytil and Will Cuylle again this year after finding comfort on their line post-injury last season. “I think there’s been good games with those guys,” he noted.

In last spring’s playoffs, despite recording only one goal and one assist in 15 games, Kakko felt responsible on defense: “We didn’t give up too many goals against… I think that’s our job.” Fans might feel hopeful seeing this sense of responsibility from him.

Kakko did not change his training regimen drastically over summer but focused on increasing his speed on ice instead. Clear communication between him and Laviolette will be crucial this season; knowing their roles helps players perform better without added pressure.

Off-ice activities also keep Kakko grounded—he enjoys walking around West Village or attending Knicks and Yankees games—and maybe even stopping by White Horse Tavern for oysters!

The key thing now is finding common ground with Laviolette as training camp progresses towards its endgame: “There’s going to be opportunities… He’s a 23-year-old really good young player for our team,” said Laviolette excitedly looking forward to seeing what Kakko brings this season.

What do you think? Can Kaapo finally have his breakout year?