NHL Rumors: New York Rangers Winger Becoming Trade Candidate

The New York Rangers' start to the 2022-23 season has been fairly underwhelming, as their 13-10-5 record effectively shows. Although they are still in the playoff race, it is clear that they would benefit from making a big splash at the deadline. However, if they want to add a star player before the playoffs, Kaapo Kakko is likely a player who will head the other way (along with other assets).

When the Rangers drafted Kakko with the second-overall pick of the 2019 NHL Entry Draft, they thought they were landing a future star. So far, the 21-year-old has not been bad in the slightest, but his offensive game has been fairly quiet. After recording 18 points in 43 games last season, he has just nine points in 28 games so far in 2022-23.

The Rangers have been linked to Chicago Blackhawks star Patrick Kane, but if they want to land him, Kakko is likely the young, NHL talent that will be moved. Alas, let's see what happens with Kakko from here.