The only issue would be when everyone's entry level contract expires. This would work for a couple years, but then would be over in cap space.

why benn? he sticks out here.

If Kakko can't produce with those two he should be sent back to TPS honestly.

I disagree, you are looking at his game in a very 1 dimensional way, and that is called points. While yes, he has struggled when it comes to points, he has been lights out ELITE on defense and that makes him worth keeping around. Also, one reason why he has not produced with Kreider and Zibanejad is the fact that they play a north-south game, while Kaapo plays an east-west game (Like Panarin and Strome). So I see Turk moving Kakko back with them and keeping Laffy on the first line. There is also the factor of his nagging injury (that has been present since his early season injury (in his 3rd game I think)), looking at photos I have come to 2 conclusions of what that injury could be: 1) A sprain in his right shoulder, 2) A fracture, or sprain in his right wrist, and big shocker you need both these body parts to be able to shoot or pass in hockey.

I agree on principle, but honestly as of right now we're basically looking at a new Artturi Lehkonen here. They are very beneficial players to have in a team, but not something acquired via drafting second overall. Those kinds of assets should bring something more special. But it's still early days.

I like the guy, but I'd be lying if I said I wasn't a bit disappointed to the start of his career. He had a better record that Laine did in his last year in Liiga, and he started bombing immediately after his arrival at 18.

I would say more than Lehkonen we are looking at Barkov jr.

Nah. Barkov had more points in his two first years combined than Kakko has produced throughout his career. In a much worse team too.

Again looking at a 1 dimensional view of his game...

Pretty important dimension too for a 2nd overall pick, which btw Barkov also was.

That is why I made the connection... Give Kakko time he is 21! The Sedins took 6 years and are HoF candidates...

I said already it's early days. And I tend to agree with most of what you said. But the Barkov comparison is off in my opinion.

I am comparing the defensive ability...

Alright then