Red Wings Eye Potential Trade for Kaapo Kakko
Recent trade rumors suggest that the Detroit Red Wings could be looking to acquire New York Rangers forward Kaapo Kakko, a former second-overall pick in the 2019 NHL Draft. A fan-generated trade proposal on PuckPedia outlines a deal where the Red Wings would trade Andrew Copp to the Rangers in exchange for Kakko and a 2025 fifth-round draft pick.
Potential Impact on the Red Wings:
Acquiring Kakko would inject more youth into the Red Wings’ roster, complementing their existing young core, which includes Lucas Raymond and Moritz Seider. At just 23 years old, Kakko could be a long-term asset for Detroit. The trade would give Kakko a fresh start with a team that is still rebuilding, likely allowing him to take on a larger role than he had with the Rangers. In New York, Kakko has struggled to find consistency and was occasionally left out of the lineup, despite being expected to contribute significantly when he was drafted.
**Rangers’ Perspective:**
For the Rangers, reacquiring Andrew Copp would bring a familiar face back to the team. Copp was initially acquired by the Rangers at the 2022 trade deadline from the Winnipeg Jets and made a positive impact before leaving in free agency to sign a five-year, $28.125 million contract with Detroit. Adding Copp to the roster would bolster the Rangers’ middle-six forward group, providing them with more scoring depth, physicality, and size—qualities that Kakko hasn’t fully delivered on during his time with the team. Last season, Copp recorded 33 points (13 goals and 20 assists) in 79 games with the Red Wings.
**Red Wings’ Playoff Aspirations:**
The Red Wings narrowly missed the playoffs last season and are determined to make a strong push in the upcoming season. General Manager Steve Yzerman has expressed confidence in the team’s ability to compete for a playoff spot, especially after adding key players like Vladimir Tarasenko in free agency. Yzerman highlighted the team’s improved roster composition and the importance of staying healthy, strong goaltending, and players exceeding expectations to make the postseason.
Detroit has not made the playoffs since the 2015-16 season, ending a 25-year streak of consecutive postseason appearances. Yzerman’s efforts to rebuild the team appear to be progressing, and the potential addition of Kakko could be another step in that direction.
**Kakko’s Frustration with the Rangers:**
Kakko’s time with the Rangers has been marked by inconsistency and limited opportunities. The Finnish forward has expressed frustration with his role, particularly after being scratched from the lineup during both the regular season and playoffs. Following the season, Kakko made it clear that he wants to play a bigger role and be in the lineup consistently.
His desire for more ice time and a larger role might be better fulfilled with the Red Wings, who could provide him with the environment he needs to develop and reach his full potential as a top NHL player.
This trade proposal, while speculative, reflects the ongoing efforts of teams to find the right pieces to enhance their rosters and achieve their goals. If executed, it could be a mutually beneficial deal for both the Red Wings and the Rangers, depending on how each player performs in their new settings.