I personally love the idea of acquiring Kakko! That said I'm assuming the Rangers would decline this deal, because if they are to move him I think that they will seek a star (not saying they'll get one, but I think they'd be looking for a Schieffle type of guy for instance) But I'm not an insider so nor am I Chris Drury so I really don't know that for sure. Another note about Kakko though in my opinion if your are acquiring him via trade I think that the cap hit is far too high, I'd like to get him in on a bridge deal of like 2x2.5-3 AAV range

Last year, Kkko played at a pace of 34pts over 82games
Mitts played at a pace of 39pts/82games
Adding a 1st to get Kakko is bonkers

And at that price,
we should be aiming for a much better player anyways

I’d rather have Mitts than Kakko, adding a first to him with retention is a definite no-go.

Just offer sheet kakko if you want him. It'll put NyR in a tough spot as they are trying to use the remainder of their cap space on improving and I can't imagine they are pumped with his production this far as a top pick.

Easy Rangers no

The Saber's could easily extend Kakko an offer sheet for $4.5MM or more and give up less to the Rangers but we all know how well those work out between teams who see each other on the regular each season. New York, should actually be happy with this as it helps them on the cap front. Of course, they will never see it that was as fans never do see reason and always think unsigned RFAs are worth everything. The kid is disgruntled and has no good reason to make it easy on the Rangers GM.