Rangers Panarin-Kaako Top Line for 1st Preseason Game is Everything We Want to See

After a couple years without making the Stanley Cup Playoffs, the New York Rangers look like they may once again be contenders.

In the aftermath of a great summer that featured a trade for defenseman Jacob Trouba, the Rangers will start the 2019 preseason with a deadly top line.

The Rangers will open up at Madison Square Garden against the New Jersey Devils, and they will be flaunting their two biggest acquisitions of the past offseason: Artemi Panarin and Kaapo Kakko.

Former Chicago Blackhawks and Columbus Blue Jackets left winger Panarin has been a sniper in his first four seasons, averaging 29 goals, 80 points, and 80 games played. After leading the Blue Jackets to their first playoff series victory last spring, the 27-year-old signed a seven-year deal with the Rangers to keep him in New York through his prime.

At right wing, the Rangers will have the No. 2 overall pick in this year's draft in the 18-year-old Fin Kakko. Last year, Kakko won the President's Trophy (not that one), awarded to someone who has had the biggest impact on hockey in Finland. Past winners include inaugural winner Jari Kurri, Teemu Selanne, each of the Koivu brothers, and Patrick Laine.

Oh, by the way, that line also features a very underrated center in Mika Zibanejad, who led the team in goals (30), assists (44), and points (74) last year, all career-highs, while playing all 82 games. Possibly his biggest moment as a Ranger so far also came last year with his highlight reel game-winner in Newark.

The top line should leave a big imprint on the Rangers next season, even if this isn't necessarily the final draft.