With the Rangers hitting a bit of a rough patch early on this season, GM Chris Drury is already considering shaking things up with the team's core.
We know that some of New York’s longest-tenured veterans such as captain Jacob Trouba and winger Chris Kreider have found themselves landing on the block.
According to TSN’s Darren Dreger, Kaapo Kakko has also resurfaced in trade talks.
Kakko's name was already floated around in discussions leading up to the draft earlier this summer, but he ended up re-signing with the club on a cheap one-year pact when they failed to find a deal.
The youngster is said to be seeking a fresh start elsewhere before hitting unrestricted free agency this summer.
Kakko has had a bit of an up-and-down start to his career after being selected with the second overall pick in the 2019 NHL Draft, but he's started this year on a high note, recording three goals and nine assists on New York's gritty third-line.
He's also showcased a bit of versatility, playing center for the first time over the past few games.
Dreger adds that the Rangers won't simply give the 23-year-old away and the return would have to be exactly what they're looking for.