New York Rangers: 2 Breakout Candidates For Next Season

With each season that passes, it seems as though every team has players who improve significantly. They often turn out to be prospects naturally, but players who have some experience in the league also can. In this segment, we will be looking at two potential breakout candidates from each team. We will also be setting a max age limit of 26 years old, so older players are not eligible for discussion.

In this piece, we will be looking at the New York Rangers. The Rangers are looking to take that next step and become a playoff team again. When looking at their roster, they certainly have the potential to. They have a nice mix of solid veterans and young players. Expect these two kids to elevate their games to higher levels next season.

Alexis Lafrenière LW: Although Alexis Lafrenière did not take the NHL by storm in his first season, he did play well for a teenager. In 56 games, he scored 12 goals and recorded 21 points. The 2020 first overall pick is just getting his career started and should see his statistics go up noticeably as soon as next season. He is viewed as a future star in this league because of how talented he is offensively. His outstanding QMJHL stint with the Rimouski Océanic showed this perfectly. Keep in mind, he ended his time there with two seasons over 100 points.

Kappo Kakko RW: Kappo Kakko was the second overall pick of the 2019 NHL Entry Draft, so he does possess high expectations. He has yet to blossom into a true top-six winger, but keep in mind, he's only played two seasons. He is still just 20-years-old and has plenty of room for growth. In 48 games this past season, he scored nine goals and had 17 points. With the departure of Pavel Buchnevich, Kakko should be given more opportunities this upcoming season. An increase in his offensive production should be on the way because he will likely be given a prolonged chance on their second-line.