Colorado Avalanche poised to set NHL record with Mikko Rantanen extension

For years, the Colorado Avalanche has been a dominant force in the NHL. After relocating and rebranding from the Quebec Nordiques before the 1995-1996 season, they've secured a playoff spot 20 times out of 28. The team has also earned three Stanley Cup championships, with their most recent triumph over the Tampa Bay Lightning in 2022.

In the midst of the Avalanche's star-studded roster, Nathan MacKinnon and Mikko Rantanen have risen as a formidable forward duo. By the end of March, they ranked third for the most prolific point-earning pairs since the 2015-16 season, just behind Nikita Kucherov and Steven Stamkos of the Tampa Bay Lightning.

It comes as no surprise that the Colorado Avalanche is reportedly negotiating an extension with 27-year-old forward Mikko Rantanen, who is set to enter the final year of his current six-year deal worth over $9 million annually. Sources indicate that the new contract is expected to be longer than the existing one.

Nathan MacKinnon's contract, valued at $12.6 million per year through 2031, means that he and Mikko Rantanen together earn $21.85 million annually. With expected adjustments to their contracts, this duo has the potential to overtake Auston Matthews and William Nylander of the Toronto Maple Leafs, who currently earn a combined $24.75 million per year, and become the highest-paid pair in NHL history.

While specifics of Mikko Rantanen's upcoming contract remain undisclosed, it's clear he will receive a substantial salary from the Colorado Avalanche. However, securing a deal that exceeds $12.15 million annually might be challenging.

Source: Markerzone
Colorado Avalanche set to make NHL history with Mikko Rantanen extension