Kaapo Kakko on playing for TPS in Finland in October, “I can’t say anything about that yet”

Rangers young phenom, Kaapo Kakko reveals in a new interview with Finnish outlet, Italehti that he hasn’t ruled out playing in Liiga. “I haven’t thought about playing at TPS yet,” the 19 year-old winger said. When asked if he sees himself with them in October he reiterated, “I can’t say anything about that yet.”

Kakko is Training

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Kaapo Kakko #2 pick overall 2019 (Bruce Bennet/Getty Images)

“I’ve been working out so far at the gym and Turku Sports Park or the sports hall. Under the guidance of Marko Rautala,” Kakko noted. “I am trying to get more speed and strength, and the training is similar to what I’ve done the last three seasons.”

Kaapo just started training. That’s because all his gear just got to him from New York last week. His focus is strictly on quality training at the moment, and he may address the TPS question later.

rangers kaapo kakko
(Quote image: SVoogel)

Kaapo Kakko on last season and his goal for this one

When asked about last season, Kakko was very honest. “The first season was a learning experience. Now I know what level I need to be able to play at in the NHL,” he said. “I was on the third and fourth line for most of the year and it is easier to play 16-17 minutes a game instead of 10.” Kakko also noted that towards the end of the season his game and ice time improved.

As far as next season goes, he wants to get on the top lines. “Getting to the scoring lines is my goal,” Kakko revealed. “I finished the season on the second line, and I want to be on the ice when the games are on the line.”

Ultimately, Kakko wants to continue to develop as a player. He knows he had to earn David Quinn’s trust and he believes at the end he did.

RANGERS KAAPO KAKKO
(Quote Image: SVoogel)

Anthony Scultore has been covering the New York Rangers and the NHL since 2014. His work also appears at... More about Anthony Scultore

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