The Seattle Kraken and restricted free-agent forward Kaapo Kakko avoided arbitration Tuesday, agreeing to a three-year contract that carries a $4.525-million average annual value, the team announced Tuesday.

The contract buys two of Kakko's unrestricted free agency years.

"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, recorded 14 goals and 30 assists in 79 games last season. However, 30 of his 44 points came in 49 games games with the Kraken following a midseason trade from the New York Rangers.

The Kraken acquired Kakko in December in exchange for defenseman Will Borgen and a pair of draft picks.

The Rangers drafted Kakko second overall in 2019. He's tallied 161 points in 379 career games.