Former second-overall pick Kaapo Kakko of the New York Rangers has been entangled in trade rumors, despite signing an extension this offseason. One notable trade pitch involves Kakko being traded to the Calgary Flames. PuckPedia’s new tool, PuckGM, allows users to create their own trade proposals, and one such proposal sees Kakko heading to Calgary in a multi-player deal.
In this proposed trade, the Rangers would acquire winger Andrei Kuzmenko, who has a $5.5 million cap hit and is entering the final year of his contract. Kuzmenko played for both the Flames and Vancouver Canucks last season, tallying 22 goals and 24 assists for a total of 46 points in 72 games. This move would potentially enhance the Rangers’ offensive capabilities.
On the other hand, Calgary would receive two players and a draft pick to aid in their rebuild. Kakko, who has yet to meet expectations in New York, might find a more prominent role with the Flames. Additionally, Bryce McConnell-Barker, a third-round pick by the Rangers in the 2022 NHL Draft, would be included. McConnell-Barker recorded 22 goals and 29 assists for 51 points in the OHL last season and is set to play in the AHL for the 2024-25 season.
The Rangers would also include a fifth-round pick, originally acquired from the Minnesota Wild in the Ryan Reaves trade in November 2022.
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