Rangers Trade Kaapo Kakko to Kraken for Will Borgen and Picks

The former No. 2 overall pick from the 2019 NHL Draft heads to Seattle after struggling to meet expectations in New York.

The New York Rangers traded Kaapo Kakko, the 2019 No. 2 overall pick, to the Seattle Kraken in exchange for defenseman Will Borgen, a 2025 third-round pick, and a 2025 sixth-round pick.
Kakko, 23, had voiced frustration over being scratched by Rangers head coach Peter Laviolette and struggled to find consistency during his six seasons in New York.
Despite being a highly touted prospect, Kakko never scored more than 20 goals in a season and recorded just four goals and 14 points in 30 games this season.
The Seattle Kraken, aiming to boost their offensive depth, hope a change of scenery can unlock Kakko’s potential as he joins a struggling team seeking more scoring options.
Will Borgen, a physical defenseman in the final year of his contract, adds depth to the Rangers' blue line as they look to improve defensively following a challenging stretch of games.