Kaapo Kakko recently expressed his surprise and disappointment about being benched during the New York Rangers’ game on Sunday night. He felt that Coach Peter Laviolette might have been targeting him unfairly, saying, “Nobody’s playing great right now … I haven’t been on the ice too much when they score a goal. I have not been the worst.”
The Rangers haven’t been performing well lately, with only three wins in their last ten games. Kakko’s stats haven’t helped his case much; since December 1st, he has just one assist in six games. Other players like Adam Edstrom and Brett Berard have also struggled to score but contributed more in other areas like shots and hits. Despite this, scratching Kakko didn’t change the outcome of their game against St. Louis, which they lost 3-2.
Rangers’ Struggles and Trade Rumors:
Kakko’s vocal reaction is unusual for him, as he’s usually quiet about being benched—even during crucial games in past seasons. This outburst might stir up old trade rumors from 2022 as tensions grow between him and the team. Fans may wonder if this is a sign of bigger changes coming for the Rangers.
Although the Rangers claim they’re not planning any trades after sending Jacob Trouba to Anaheim, they might reconsider if Kakko’s performance doesn’t improve soon. Last season was tough for him with only 19 points in 61 games after a better year before that with 40 points. This season started better but seems to be slipping again.
Some speculate that Brandon Saad from the St. Louis Blues could be a potential trade target for New York if things don’t improve internally. Saad has proven himself over four seasons with consistent scoring and could fill gaps in the lineup effectively.
For now, any talk of trades remains just speculation as both Kakko and Laviolette downplay recent comments publicly. The coach pointed out that even seasoned players like Reilly Smith have sat out games without issue—it’s part of team dynamics sometimes.
Kakko is set to return to action soon along with new defenseman Urho Vaakanainen who was acquired through recent trades involving Trouba moving westward . Vaakanainen aims to bolster a defense that’s allowed too many goals lately; hopefully providing some stability back there will help turn things around before drastic measures become necessary.
Do you think these changes will help or should fans expect more shakeups?
