The Carolina Hurricanes have officially confirmed the trade for star forward Mikko Rantanen, securing the talented winger before the upcoming trade deadline. The move comes after months of speculation and reports, marking a critical step in the team’s preparations for the playoffs and future success.
Rantanen, 28, was acquired from the Colorado Avalanche in a high-profile three-team deal that also saw the Hurricanes bring in Taylor Hall. However, with his current six-year, $55.5 million contract expiring on July 1, the Hurricanes now face a pivotal challenge: ensuring they can sign Rantanen to a long-term deal before the March 7 deadline, or risk losing him as a free agent.
Sportsnet’s insider Nick Kypreos had previously reported that while Rantanen was traded to Carolina, there was no guarantee the Hurricanes would retain him unless a contract extension was agreed upon. According to Kypreos, Carolina had to avoid a repeat of last year’s situation, where they traded for Jake Guentzel only to see him walk in free agency shortly thereafter.
“Carolina can’t afford to give up Martin Necas and two draft picks for another guy who walks to UFA,” Kypreos noted, referring to the significant package the Hurricanes gave up for Rantanen. Hurricanes’ owner Tom Dundon is reportedly keen to avoid being burned by another free agent loss, giving the team just a month to finalize a deal with the skilled forward.
Rantanen, who could be seeking a contract worth around $14 million per year, is expected to be offered an eight-year extension by Carolina, giving them an advantage over other teams who can only offer a seven-year deal in free agency. According to Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman, Carolina may propose a deal worth over $100 million, potentially with an annual cap hit close to $13 million.
Since his arrival in Carolina, Rantanen has posted two points in six games, but his overall performance this season remains impressive with 66 points in 55 games. As the Hurricanes look to solidify their future with the star forward, fans can expect significant developments in the coming weeks as the March 7 deadline approaches.
Stay tuned for more updates on Rantanen’s contract negotiations and what it means for the Hurricanes’ roster moving forward.
