Alan Hann makes his feelings known about Kaapo Kakko's blunt callout against Rangers over scapegoat benching

Alan Hahn shared his thoughts on Kaapo Kakko’s public criticism of the New York Rangers.

Speaking on ESPN NYC, Hahn described Kakko’s comments as a sign of growing frustration within the team. He said Kakko’s remarks reflect a shift from team unity to individual concerns, which could hurt the Rangers' locker room.

"We've now reached the emo stage, right on the bad team, where the young player goes generation wine on you, and starts to go public with his own personal emotions about his situation." Hahn explained.

"And that does also, again, speak to the disillusionment in that locker room, where instead of... 'well, I got to do my part', instead of it being 'less about you' and 'more about the team', what you're seeing now is that's what happens, 'don't blame me' that you get a lot of 'Don't blame me'. And that's the problem with this room right now."

Hahn added that while Kaapo Kakko might have valid points, airing such issues publicly is not the best approach.

"You can see it there's not really the only thing that unified him is that they're all depressed." Hahn said, "That's the only thing that they all have in common right now. But seriously, it's more of that, you know, the point of thumb, not the finger, and that's not the gospel did here. He might be right in some ways, but that's definitely not the thing you want to say publicly."

The Rangers started the 2024 season strong at 12–4–1 but have struggled with a 3–11 record since mid-November.

Rangers coach Peter Laviolette and Kaapo Kakko's situation

Head coach Peter Laviolette benched Kaapo Kakko for Sunday’s loss to the St. Louis Blues, sparking the latter's frustration. Kakko said he felt unfairly targeted, claiming he wasn't the worst player during the slump.

"I was surprised," Kakko said, per lohud.com, "I know we’re losing games, but I think it’s just easy to take the young guy and put him out. That’s how I feel... I’ve not been the worst guy,... But that was me out of the lineup."

Coach Peter Laviolette explained why he benched Kaapo Kakko, mentioning similar decisions with players like Reilly Smith and Jimmy Vesey. He said the struggling Rangers need to play better.

"There's been older players that have sat out, as well," said Laviolette, per Lohud.com, "The decisions that I make, they're tough decisions. Our team, Kaapo – we need to play better. We're 3-10 in our last 13 games, and that's not good enough."

"I’ll keep those messages between him and I," Laviolette said. "But I think it’s okay to be frustrated. It’s okay to be upset."

The Rangers will play the Dallas Stars on Friday hoping to secure a win. Kaapo Kakko's presence in the lineup will give the Rangers depth.