The Seattle Kraken announced Tuesday they’ve signed restricted free agent forward Kaapo Kakko to a three-year contract worth $4.525 million per season, avoiding arbitration.
The deal buys out two years of Kakko’s unrestricted free agency eligibility.
“Getting a contract done with Kaapo was a top priority this summer,” general manager Jason Botterill said. “We knew quickly he’d be a big part of our team moving forward. He’s got size, skill, and tremendous playmaking ability, and isn’t afraid of going to the net. He fit in immediately with our group, and we’re thrilled to have him under contract.”
Kakko, 24, posted 14 goals and 30 assists across 79 games last season.
His production improved significantly after joining Seattle. The forward recorded 30 of his 44 points in just 49 games with the Kraken following his midseason trade from the New York Rangers.
Kaapo Kakko, signed 3x$4.5M by SEA, is a middle six winger who’s still working out what his game is in the NHL. Still strong on the puck and a good forechecker but has to overcome his poor foot-speed and be more consistent offensively. #SeaKraken pic.twitter.com/dopgnXPzkG
— JFresh (@JFreshHockey) July 22, 2025
Seattle acquired Kakko in December. The Kraken sent defenseman Will Borgen and two draft picks to New York in the deal.
The Rangers selected Kakko second overall in the 2019 NHL Entry Draft.
He’s recorded 161 points in 379 career NHL games.
