Kaapo Kakko back for Rangers after missing 21 games

Jan 14, 2024
Kaapo Kakko New York Rangers
Dec 7, 2022; Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; New York Rangers right wing Kaapo Kakko (24) celebrates after scoring a goal against the Vegas Golden Knights during the first period at T-Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports

Head coach Peter Laviolette announced on Sunday that Kaapo Kakko is back to face the Washington Capitals after missing 21 games. The New York Rangers went 11-9-1 in his absence.

Kakko, 22, last played for the Rangers on November 27th. In a loss to the Buffalo Sabres, after falling awkwardly in the corner and was subsequently put on LTIR.

Kaapo Kakko back for Rangers

NHL: Buffalo Sabres at New York Rangers
Danny Wild-USA TODAY Sports

Now that the second overall pick in the 2019 draft is back in the lineup, it is unclear which line he will play on. The Rangers could opt to return Will Cuylle back to his familiar left wing spot on the third-line in order to allow Kakko to slot on the right wing with Mika Zibanejad and Chris Kreider.

To date, Kakko has two goals and one assist in 20 games.

New York Rangers (26-13-2) vs Washington Capitals (20-14-6)
Date/Time: January 14, 2024 @ 1:00 PM ET
Arena: Madison Square Garden
TV: MSG
Radio: ESPN 98.7 FM
Note: Subject to change, updated for each game
By Anthony Scultore

Anthony Scultore is the founder of Forever Blueshirts and has been covering the New York Rangers and the NHL... More about Anthony Scultore

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