Could Kaapo Kakko, a former first-round pick for the New York Rangers, be the solution to the Boston Bruins’ offensive struggles? With the Bruins sitting third in the Atlantic Division and showing signs of improvement under interim head coach Joe Sacco, they still face challenges, including a minus-15 goal differential and a .537 points percentage, which pales in comparison to division rivals like the Toronto Maple Leafs and Florida Panthers. Adding a versatile forward like Kakko could bolster their lineup and reignite their push for contender status.
Kakko, the second overall pick in the 2019 NHL Draft, was a highly-touted prospect but has yet to meet the lofty expectations associated with his draft position. Known for his cerebral play, exceptional vision, puck skills, and versatility, he entered the NHL with star potential. However, his offensive production has been modest, with his 2022-2023 campaign yielding a career-best 40 points (18 goals, 22 assists). This season, Kakko has registered 14 points (4 goals, 10 assists) in 26 games with a +10 rating, indicating his value as a two-way player.
While Kakko’s defense-first approach makes him an effective shutdown winger, his offensive impact has been limited, with a net -11% effect on team scoring. However, his strong transition play and potential for further development could make him a valuable addition to Boston’s top nine. The Bruins, looking to address their offensive needs while replenishing their thin prospect pipeline, might find Kakko to be an affordable and strategic trade target.
For general manager Don Sweeney, exploring a trade for Kakko could provide the team with meaningful depth and a fresh opportunity for the young winger to unlock his offensive potential. With the Rangers likely to consider moving Kakko to address other roster needs, this could be an ideal opportunity for the Bruins to strengthen their roster while building for the future.
