Kaapo Kakko Signs Exclusive Autograph Deal with Panini
Kaapo Kakko, the second-overall pick in the 2019 NHL Entry Draft, has signed an exclusive autograph trading card deal with Panini.
The 18-year-old prospect, a native of Finland, was selected by the New York Rangers with the No. 2 pick in the 2019 draft, and is considered a future fixture at right wing on New York’s top line. He also has experience at center.
Under the multi-year agreement, Kakko’s autographs and other cards will appear in a variety of products. This includes promo sets like Black Friday and Father’s Day. In fact, his first cards are available already in 2019 National Convention promo packs.
Collectors will also find a variety of online offerings available through Panini’s website. Some of these will be through Panini Instant, their print-on-demand line that highlights big performances and moments as they happen. According to a Panini press release, other online offerings will cover some of the company’s other brands.
In addition to cards, Kakko will participate in promotional initiatives with Panini.
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“Kaapo Kakko is nothing less than an international hockey phenomenon and his arrival in the U.S. -– and New York, no less — is one of the most exciting developments the sport has seen in years,” said Panini America CEO Mark Warsop in a release.
Kakko said, “I’m impressed by their creativity and their desire to push the envelope to continue raising the bar. This is going to be an awesome partnership.”
Upper Deck holds the exclusive NHL trading card license. Kakko is still eligible to appear in their NHL sets, however he won’t have any autographs.
