"That comes with a big price tag": Insider David Pagnotta reveals Rangers eyeing big trade amid Kaapo Kakko drama

David Pagnotta recently shared details about the New York Rangers's plans amid Kaapo Kakko's trade speculation. In The Latest on TFP, Pagnotta discussed the team’s interest in finding a second-line center. The Rangers have lost 11 out of their last 14 games and are on a three-game losing streak once again after a five-game losing streak earlier at the start of 14 games.

The Rangers traded their captain, Jacob Trouba, to the Anaheim Ducks while their leading points (36) and goals (15) scorer, Artemi Panarin, missed the game against the Nashville Predators. As a result, they lost with a 0-2 shutout and were left looking for offensive depth.

The team has previously healthy scratched Kaapo Kakko in the game against Blues. There are also differences between him and coach Peter Laviolette. So, some insiders feel Kaapo Kakko could be traded.

"They would love to, and we've talked about this beginning of the season that they would like to address their two C position that still is unchanged," Pagnotta said. "They would love to be able to bring in a second line center to stabilize the top six."

The New York Rangers want a player who can help stabilize their top six, but they aren’t looking for a rental or someone near the end of their career. They are focusing on younger players in their mid-20s who could be part of the team long-term.

"They want to bring in somebody in the mid 20s, maybe on the earlier stage of mid 20s, that can be with this core and built with them for years to come," he explained.

However, such a trade would be expensive and is more likely to happen in the offseason than during the season.

"And that comes with a big price tag. And those types of fields are more likely to occur in the off season than in the middle of the season." Pagnotta said.

For now, the tension on the team is growing.

Kaapo Kakko's performance in 2024-25 season

New York Rangers right wing Kaapo Kakko (24) attempts to score past Seattle Kraken goalie Philipp Grubauer (31). (Credits: IMAGN)

Kaapo Kakko, who signed a one-year, $2.4 million contract for the 2024-25 season, has had a solid start. In 30 games, he has scored four goals and added ten assists. Despite the Rangers's mixed record of 15-15-1, Kakko has shown good performance in both wins and losses. He has three goals and six assists in wins but he only has a goal and four assists in losses.

Kaapo Kakko has played 330 games in his career, scoring 61 goals and 70 assists for 131 points. While his consistency improves, maintaining his performance will be important for the Rangers.