Chris Drury Admits Kaapo Kakko Had Bad Season After Injury Riddled Year

There is a lot riding for Kaapo Kakko this upcoming season.

After another tough year, Kakko signed a one-year $2.4 million contract with the Rangers, essentially being his last chance to prove himself in New York.

While Chris Drury admitted that Kakko struggled last year, he also still believes that he'll bounce back and is encouraged by his current progress.

“He dealt with an injury last year & admittedly he didn't have the best year... Another guy that had a terrific offseason and in early testing just looks great,” Drury said. “I think he's out to prove that last year was a fluke, and he's ready to have a good year for us.”

The Rangers selected Kakko with the second overall pick in the 2019 NHL Draft and the organization has been waiting for the young forward to truly break out.

Unfortunately for New York, he’s failed to show any major progression through his first five seasons in the NHL.

There is still hope for Kakko. He is projected to play on a line alongside Filip Chytil and Will Cuylle, which could be a perfect fit for the 23-year-old.

Dury’s encouraging words on Kakko’s offseason training is certainly a positive sign that he still has the ability to turn things around.

In the grand scheme of things, words are meaningless though. It’s make it or break it time for Kakko.