I'm not saying no out of hand, but I'm going to need to see arguments for doing this from Columbus's POV.

johnson seems on the way out from an outside perspective and kakko hasnt been exactly what we want. just 2 young players who could benefit from different scenary

I had this same thought earlier today when I saw Kakko was moved down to the third line. I don't know if it will happen or if it would be a 1 for 1, but I think there is logic behind it. As a Rangers fan in Columbus, these are 2 players I've seen plenty of.

Kakko has proven he can play at the NHL level and is adept in the defensive zone, but has only shown flashes of offense and maybe playing with someone like Laine for Fantilli would help him.

Johnson is looking more like a guy on the outside looking in, very talented but other guys have caught up and passed him.

Both guys would probably benefit from a change of scenery, even if *this* isn't the right trade,

Obviously Kakko's move to 3RW generates trade speculation. But unless Kakko is pressing for a fresh start somewhere else, or Drury is offered an over pay, Id keep him in NY. While his stats don't overwhelm, his floor is that of a 2nd line (or high end 3rd line) grinding 200 foot player. As long as his contract is in line with his production, no reason to move him. Every team needs what he provides. Now will he ever be a 80-90 point player? Probably not. But I can see him develop as a Selke candidate. Bob Gainey never registered beyond the 40's in points- yet every team would have loved to have his services.