NHL insider claims Stars-Hurricanes locked in “intensifying’ trade talks regarding Mikko Rantanen

Mikko Rantanen was traded away by the Avalanche in a three-way trade to the Hurricanes with the Blackhawks retaining half of his salary.

NHL insider claims Stars-Hurricanes locked in “intensifying’ trade talks regarding Mikko Rantanen

Mikko Rantanen (Image via Yardbarker)

Six weeks ago, the NHL world received a major shock when the Colorado Avalanche suddenly traded away one of their superstars Mikko Rantanen. The Finnish international would find himself on the Carolina Hurricanes. Ahead of the trade deadline on Friday, he has once again become a trending topic.

Rantanen was traded by the Avs in a 3-way trade. For giving him away, they received Martin Necas, Jack Drury, a 2025 second-round pick, and a 2026 fourth-round pick. The Canes meanwhile, got Rantanen and Taylor Hall from the Chicago Blackhawks in return. The Hawks also retained 50 percent of Rantanen’s salary and got a 2025 third-round pick.

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As per reports, Rantanen was in agreement to take a lower salary and stay with the Avalanche. However, the team still decided to trade him. The move to the Hurricanes has so far not worked out well for the forward. He has just 2 goals and 6 points in 13 games for them.

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The Hurricanes were hoping to make the 28-year-old star sign a long-term deal. However, that has not happened, which has led to them seeking other options.

As per NHL insider Elliotte Friedman, the talks of a trade between the Hurricanes and the Dallas Stars for Rantanen is “intensifying.” If the trade deal does happen, then Rantanen would return to the Western Conference and become a member of the Stars.

There are also reports of him agreeing to sign a contract extension with the Stars. However, Friedman claims there are some uncertainty regarding that topic at the given moment.

Martin Necas takes shot at former team Carolina Hurricanes regarding Mikko Rantanen drama

The move to sign Mikko Rantanen on a short-term deal hoping that he would agree to a contract extension has not turned out the way the Carolina Hurricanes had hoped for. One of the players Martin Necas, whom they gave away to get their hands on Rantanen, would take a shot at his former team for this drama.

Martin Necas and Mikko Rantanen
Martin Necas and Mikko Rantanen (Image via Elite Prospects/MSN)

Since his arrival in Denver, Necas has thrived in his new home. The move away from the Canes has turned out well for him and the Avalanche. Recently, he seemingly taunted his former team and took a jibe at them.

Obviously, I’ve seen it. I still talk to a lot of guys in Carolina. It’s a tough position for them. They probably should’ve known that Rantanen would sign in Carolina. I don’t know if he’s signing or not; nobody knows until something happens. I cheer for us, but obviously wish all the guys the best of luck. Whatever happens, happens. All good from here.

Martin Necas told the reporters as per DNVR Avalanche on X

The Stars with a 41-19-2 and the Hurricanes with a 37-22-4 records are both in playoff contention. It now remains to be seen for whom Rantanen will play in the playoffs.