The metrics under the hood tell a curious story centered on one basic fact: Kakko and his linemates are on a shooting hot streak while Lafreniere and his linemates are in a shooting slump.

Instant chemistry between Kaapo Kakko and Matty Beniers has generated some cautious optimism for the Kraken, with both enjoying productive stretches.

Kakko has three goals and five assists during his five-game point streak. The winger helped out on all three of Jaden Schwartz's goals in Saturday's win. Kakko has meshed well with Schwartz and Matty Beniers in a top-line role for the Kraken,

10. Mailbag: Bernie Rhode has a tip for Chris Drury: "Offer Jonathan Toews a PTO. The Rangers need a player like Toews because they still are sloppy defensively, particularly through the neutral zone. Toews is just the center to show this group how it's done."

Since being traded away by the New York Rangers, forward Kaapo Kakko has found a new home with the Seattle Kraken. Amid a hot streak, the 23-year-old Finn dropped a bold message, aiming at Peter Laviolette and his former team.

When captain Jordan Eberle eventually returns from the injured list, the Seattle Kraken might need to find another spot for him in the lineup. Because it appears their top line is set with Jaden Schwartz,

Seattle Kraken veteran forward Jaden Schwartz is having one of the best offensive seasons of his career as he enters the later stages of his career.

Kakko spent Christmas in Seattle at Tolvanen’s house, although the newly acquired winger fielded inquiries from several other Kraken players. The Finns last played together in 2019, so they had a lot to catch up on, sharing “dumb” summer stories and reflecting on their shared history.

He has been a solid fit in the Rangers defense corps since coming to New York in the Kaapo Kakko trade on Dec. 18.

Kaapo Kakko scored twice in the third period, Joey Daccord made 33 saves and the Seattle Kraken overcame an early two-goal deficit to beat the Buffalo Sabres 6-2 on Saturday.

Kakko provided an assist, fired two shots on net and added two hits in Thursday's 2-1 loss to the Jets.

The New York Rangers are reportedly trying to trade for Canucks center J.T. Miller. But Adam Proteau says they can't make a Miller trade make sense for them right now.