Rangers Rumors: Kaapo Kakko Linked to Blackhawks

The Chicago Blackhawks are in the middle of a rebuild and are expected to be sellers at the 2024 NHL Trade Deadline because of it. However, it also appears that they are at least open to adding to their group if it helps them beyond this season.

As a result of this, there have been rumblings that the Blackhawks are now expressing interest in New York Rangers forward Kaapo Kakko.

When noting that Kakko is a former top prospect who is still just 23 years old, it makes sense that the Blackhawks are currently eyeing him. They also would have the potential to be a good landing spot for him, as their forward group is far weaker than New York's. Because of this, he would stand a very good shot of playing bigger minutes if moved to the Blackhawks.

Kakko would also give the Blackhawks another young promising forward to play with Connor Bedard. There is no question that Bedard could use some more help when looking at the Blackhawks' roster, and Kakko would give them that if he turns his game back around following a move to Chicago.

Kakko has appeared in 40 games this season with the Rangers, where he has seven goals, 11 points, and a plus-4 rating. In 82 games last season, he has 18 goals and 40 points.