Per Larry Brooks, the Rangers have re-signed forward Kaapo Kakko to his one year qualifying offer of $2.4 million. This is a very good deal for the Rangers. As noted in his report card, Kakko is a strong defensive forward who may have had some poor puck luck impact his offensive numbers.
But at best, the Rangers get that shutdown forward who, as we've seen, is fully capable of putting up 40 points. That would be a bargain and, if the rest of the offseason plans work out as the team hopes, could be a key cog in a retooled Cup run. Bargain bin scoring is critical.
As for Kakko, this is a show me deal. He knows he had a rough year offensively, and this gives him the motivation to earn more in his next contract. He likely earns more in this one-year show me than on the open market.
Food for thought: It's easier to trade a player under contract than a player pending a contract, even an RFA. Doesn't mean the Rangers are looking to trade Kakko, but since he's under contract he's easier to trade as a known entity.
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