Rangers Sign Kaapo Kakko to One-Year Extension Amid Trade Speculation

The $2.4 million deal provides cost certainty but does not eliminate the possibility of a trade for the former No. 2 overall pick.

Kaapo Kakko's one-year, $2.4 million contract extension matches his qualifying offer as a restricted free agent.
Despite the extension, trade rumors persist as the deal makes a potential trade easier for interested teams.
Kakko has had an inconsistent career with the Rangers, with a career-high of 40 points in the 2022-23 season.
The 23-year-old winger struggled last season, missing 21 games due to injury and being a healthy scratch in the playoffs.
Rangers' management remains optimistic about Kakko's potential but acknowledges the need for further development.