In a stunning move that sent shockwaves through the NHL, the Carolina Hurricanes acquired superstar winger Mikko Rantanen from the Colorado Avalanche in a blockbuster three-team trade on Friday night. The deal, which also involved the Chicago Blackhawks, saw the Hurricanes pick up former MVP Taylor Hall as well.
Hurricanes Aim to Make Rantanen a Franchise Cornerstone
Now, Carolina GM Eric Tulsky hopes to quickly sign the 28-year-old Rantanen, who will be an unrestricted free agent this summer, to a massive long-term contract extension. In his first year at the helm, Tulsky believes the Hurricanes have the cap space and organizational appeal to get a deal done.
“[Rantanen] is an incredible player… Our goal is to make him want to be here and then offer enough money that he doesn’t have to think twice about it.”
– Hurricanes GM Eric Tulsky
A Dominant Offensive Force
Rantanen has established himself as one of the NHL’s premier forwards. Some key facts about his elite production:
- 5th in NHL scoring since 2021-22 with 365 points in 286 games
- Back-to-back 100+ point seasons
- 25 goals and 64 points in 49 games this season
- 101 points in 81 playoff games, including 25 points during Colorado’s 2022 Stanley Cup run
Making the Financial Commitment
Signing Rantanen long-term won’t be cheap. He’s reportedly seeking a deal in the neighborhood of the 8-year, $112 million extension ($14M AAV) that Leon Draisaitl recently signed with Edmonton. But Carolina believes they are well-positioned to make a competitive offer.
With an estimated $35-40 million in cap space this offseason, Tulsky says the Hurricanes “don’t feel nearly as constrained” as they did last year when efforts to re-sign trade acquisition Jake Guentzel ultimately failed. As the only team that can offer Rantanen an 8-year deal, Carolina is ready to use that to their advantage in negotiations.
Mutual Interest Key to Rantanen’s Future
Of course, Rantanen will have no shortage of suitors if he hits the open market. While Carolina can offer financial security, Tulsky acknowledges the Finnish star could have other priorities that impact his decision.
“He has the right as a free agent to decide where to sign and it may not come down to the money for him. It may come down to where he wants to be.”
– Hurricanes GM Eric Tulsky
The Hurricanes will pitch Rantanen on their consistent success under coach Rod Brind’Amour, which includes 6 straight playoff appearances and two trips to the Eastern Conference Final. The presence of fellow Finns like Sebastian Aho could also boost Carolina’s appeal.
A Calculated Gamble for the Canes
In the end, trading for Rantanen without an extension in place represents a significant risk for the Hurricanes. But it’s one the ascending franchise appears willing to take for a chance to add a gamebreaking talent in his prime to their core.
The NHL will be watching intently to see if Carolina can close the deal and make Mikko Rantanen a long-term centerpiece of their Stanley Cup aspirations. With money to spend and mutual interest to gauge, the stage is set for a fascinating round of negotiations between team and player.
