The Seattle Kraken liked what they saw in the 49 games that right winger Kaapo Kakko played for them last season.
On Tuesday, the franchise and the 24-year-old Finnish forward agreed to a three-year contract featuring an average annual value of $4,525,000. The team will avoid arbitration with the restricted free agent.
Kakko, the No. 2 overall pick by the Rangers in the 2019 draft, was dealt by New York to Seattle on Dec. 18 for defenseman Will Borgen and a pair of 2025 draft picks.
He made an immediate impact, scoring 10 goals and adding 20 assists in 49 games. Kakko averaged a career-best 17:03 of ice time per game with Seattle. Combined between the Rangers and Kraken, he totaled 44 points (14 goals, 30 assists), also a career best for the six-year veteran.
“Getting a contract done with Kaapo was a top priority this summer,” Seattle general manager Jason Botterill said in a statement. “We knew quickly he’d be a big part of our team moving forward. He’s got size, skill and tremendous playmaking ability, and isn’t afraid of going to the net. He fit in immediately with our group, and we’re thrilled to have him under contract.”
Kakko has played in 379 NHL games, amassing 71 goals and 90 assists. He was used more extensively on the power play for Seattle and responded with three goals on that unit after tallying seven in five-plus years for New York.
–Field Level Media
