2019 NHL Mock Draft: Do New Jersey Devils go with Kaapo Kakko?

The New York Rangers have it easy. While the Devils have to sit there and choose between Hughes and Kakko, the blue shirts can sit back and take whoever they don’t take. They don’t really have to make a decision. It will be made for them.

Either Kakko or Hughes would be terrific for the Rangers. Both project to be franchise players. No matter who the Rangers pick, they get someone who speeds up the timeline of their rebuild. In this case, it will be Kakko

To be honest, Hughes is probably who the Rangers want the most. But Kakko is still an elite level player. He didn’t play much center in Finland, but I think he could stick there considering he’s flat out dominated whenever he’s played at center.

That said, I think Kakko is a better wing than center because his board play is one of his best skills. He’s very hard to play off the puck and should blossom into a top-line forward for the Rangers. It wouldn’t shock me one bit if he’s one of the Rangers top three forwards by the end of this season.

To be frank, the Rangers should have to pick immediately after the Devils. Don’t bother letting the clock run down. After all, the Devils are effectively choosing for the Rangers as well. Kakko would make the Rangers happier than a kid at a candy shop.