Kaapo Kakko Playing First-Line Role With Kraken As He Continues To See Increased Usage

Kaapo Kakko’s role has dramatically increased since the New York Rangers traded him to the Seattle Kraken.

After serving a third-line role in New York while even getting scratched on a few occasions, Kakko is suddenly playing on the Kraken’s first line alongside Matty Beniers and Jaden Schwartz.

His average ice time went from 13:17 minutes to 15:50 minutes following the change of scenery, which is pretty shocking given his stagnating progression with the Rangers.

Kraken coach Dan Bylsma praised Kakko as he’s been impressed with the young forward.

“I think with the change of scenery for Kakko, it has been an opportunity for him to have a fresh start, get a good opportunity with good players to establish his game… With Matty Beniers, with Jaden Schwartz on that line, they’ve continued to be our best line. You can see what kind of player he can be,” Bylsma said on NHL Network.

“He’s a big body, can hold onto the puck in the offensive zone, create space for his linemates and he’s good and big around the net. That means scoring goals and making plays in and around there. The numbers are pretty impressive for what they’ve done in 10 games or so as a line.”

The 23-year-old has recorded four goals, nine assists and 13 points in 16 games with the Kraken.