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NHL general managers indicated that the Carolina Hurricanes' trade for Mikko Rantanen won't change their deadline approach.
After a shocking trade, the Hurricanes have elevated their chances of winning the Stanley Cup in the 2024-25 NHL season. Which other teams are contenders?
The Carolina Hurricanes made waves on Friday night with the acquisition of Mikko Rantanen from the Colorado Avalanche. Colorado and Rantanen were at an impasse when it came to contract negotiations.
Speaking to The Athletic’s Peter Baugh on Monday, Rantanen shared his thoughts on the trade, his contract talks with the Avalanche and his new chapter in Carolina. Most interestingly, Rantanen confirmed that he was "ready to take a significant discount" to stay in Colorado, as initially reported by Pierre LeBrun of The Athletic.
Despite being a fan favorite and a key part of the Avalanche's recent success, the salary-cap reality forced their hand.
Mikko Rantanen says he was willing to take a discount to stay with the Avalanche before the Hurricanes trade happened.
Laughlin said that he had predicted that Rantanen, a UFA after this season, would either sign with the Anaheim Ducks or the Columbus Blue Jackets. That's right, your Columbus Blue Jackets.
If there is one trade that has shocked many, it is that of Mikko Rantanen. Seeing that the Colorado Avalanche received not only Martin Necas, but also Jack Drury, Taylor Hall, and a few draft picks must please the club.
The Avalanche have been making major changes to their roster all season. But there's a former Av who is a free agent -- and a potential reunion for him in Colorado is intriguing.
The Mikko Rantanen trade had one big loser: The Rangers. The New York Rangers has a rough night on Tuesday. Not only did the team fall further back in the Metropolitan Division standings with a 4-0 loss to the Hurricanes at home, but they also helped validate every part of the blockbuster Mikko Rantanen trade.