NHL Rumors: Kings & Rangers Talking Trade?

In recent NHL trade talks, the New York Rangers and the Los Angeles Kings have emerged as prominent contenders in a potential deal.

The rumored trade proposal revolves around the Rangers sending Kaapo Kakko, the Finnish forward who has shown promise but struggled with consistency, along with a 2026 third-round draft pick to the Kings, according to Rob Ellis.

ALEX TURCOTTE'S FIRST @NHL GOAL!!!!!! pic.twitter.com/clsF5KzbcZ

— LA Kings (@LAKings) February 1, 2024

In return, the Kings would part ways with two promising young talents, Alex Turcotte and Arthur Kaliyev.

This trade speculation highlights the strategic maneuvering both teams are considering to address their respective needs and aspirations.

We'd call that goal a work of Art(y)...@Arthur_Kaliyev ties it up. pic.twitter.com/LgcXbZzqa9

— LA Kings (@LAKings) October 7, 2021

Although Kakko is the same age as Turcotte, he's played 253 more NHL games, amassing 49 goals and 104 total points over 267 games played.

He had a decent season last year, putting up 18 goals and 40 points over 82 games played.

New York goal!

Scored by Kaapo Kakko with 01:06 remaining in the 3rd period.

Assisted by Jacob Trouba and Blake Wheeler.

New York: 2
Vegas: 4#VGKvsNYR #NYR #VegasBorn pic.twitter.com/nHPJuh5loZ

— NHL Goals (@nhl_goal_bot) January 27, 2024

For the Rangers, the opportunity to acquire Turcotte and Kaliyev could bolster their prospect pool and future potential, while the Kings would aim to add Kakko's unique skill set to their roster, potentially rejuvenating his career in a new environment.

So far this season, in the AHL, Turcotte has scored seven goals and 23 total points across 28 games played.

Kaliyev has scored 34 goals and 70 total points across 175 games played in the NHL. Photo Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports