New York Rangers Secure One-Year Extension for Restricted Free Agent Kaapo Kakko

Thursday, June 13th, 2024

The New York Rangers have agreed to a one-year contract with forward Kaapo Kakko, valued at $2.4 million.

Kakko, who is 23 years old, was on the verge of becoming a restricted free agent. The new salary is equal to his qualifying offer amount.

Kakko, selected as the second overall pick in the 2019 NHL draft, achieved his best season in 2022-23 with 18 goals and 40 points over 82 games.

Though he faced challenges during the regular season with just 19 points in 61 games, Kakko made contributions in the playoffs by scoring one goal and adding an assist in 15 games as the Rangers advanced to the Eastern Conference finals.

In that series, Kakko was benched in Game 2 against the Florida Panthers but made a return in Game 3. The Rangers eventually lost the series by a score of 4-2.

This new contract offers Kakko a chance for a comeback next season and provides the Rangers with financial stability prior to free agency.

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