Full Breakdown
Kaapo Kakko to Miss Six Weeks with Broken Hand
9/29/2025, 12:18:46 AM
Injury Details and Impact on the Team
Seattle Kraken forward Kaapo Kakko will be sidelined for approximately six weeks due to a broken hand sustained during a preseason game against the Edmonton Oilers. The injury occurred on Wednesday when Oilers defenseman prospect Beau Akey delivered a slash to Kakko, forcing him to leave the game after just 1:59 of play. The Kraken announced the injury on Saturday, indicating that Kakko is likely to miss the team's season opener on October 9 against the Anaheim Ducks, as well as several subsequent games.
Kakko, 24, was acquired by the Kraken from the New York Rangers on December 19, 2024, in exchange for defenseman Will Borgen and draft picks. Last season, he recorded a career-high 44 points, including 14 goals and 30 assists, in 79 games split between both teams. Following his trade, he notably improved his performance, scoring 30 points in 49 games with Seattle.
Broader Implications for the Kraken
Kakko's absence adds to a growing list of injuries affecting the Kraken as they prepare for the upcoming season. Other players, including Brandon Montour, Chandler Stephenson, and Jared McCann, are currently day-to-day with various injuries, complicating the team's depth and lineup options. The Kraken, who finished seventh in the Pacific Division last season and missed the playoffs, are looking to bounce back under new head coach Lane Lambert. The team has made several offseason moves, including the signing of defenseman Ryan Lindgren and the acquisition of veteran winger Mason Marchment, to bolster their roster.
Official Statements & Responses
The Kraken's management expressed concern over Kakko's injury, highlighting its timing as particularly unfortunate given his recent resurgence in performance. The team is now faced with the challenge of filling the void left by Kakko in the top six, which may provide opportunities for younger players like Jani Nyman and Berkly Catton to step up.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics have pointed out the risks associated with preseason games, noting that while they are essential for evaluating talent and building team chemistry, they can also lead to injuries that impact the regular season. Kakko's injury has sparked discussions about the need for better protective measures during these games to safeguard players.
Verbatim Quotes
- “This is the double-edge sword of preseason games: You need them to evaluate prospects and shake off rust, but then your newly re-signed top-line winger breaks his hand in a game that doesn’t count.” — Analyst, Davy Jones Locker Room
- “The timing stings because Kakko had finally found his game after arriving via trade from the Rangers last December.” — Analyst, Davy Jones Locker Room
Kakko's recovery will be closely monitored as the Kraken aim to improve upon their previous season's performance while navigating the challenges posed by injuries.
