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Rangers' Kakko skates around Wild's net twice, scores gorgeous OT goal

The New York Rangers seem to have a good one in Kaapo Kakko. (Photo by Derek Cain/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

Kaapo Kakko got his first taste of NHL hockey (kinda!) on Monday in the league’s Prospect Tournament, and my word, did he make an unbelievable early impression.

With the game in overtime, the talented New York Rangers up-and-comer carried the puck into the Minnesota Wild’s prospects zone, skated around the net twice, and netted an outstanding unassisted goal.

The Finnish forward used his impressive combination of size and speed to stroll around the opposition and win the game 4-3.

When asked about the individual effort afterwards, the 18-year-old offered a pretty cheeky response.

“I remember my old coach like two years ago said, ‘In overtime, don’t pass.’ So I didn’t.”

That turned out to be some pretty good advice, I’d say.

Prior to singlehandedly ending the match, Kakko had three assists - all in the third period - which helped extend the contest.

Sure, the New Jersey Devils technically won the NHL Draft Lottery by moving up from the No. 3 spot to No. 1, but I think we can all agree that the Rangers lucked out the most by jumping to the second pick after entering with the sixth-overall selection.

That fortuitous break allowed the Blueshirts to nab Kakko, and although it’s early, it looks like they’ve got a good one.

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