Mikko Rantanen Draws Interest from Multiple Teams as Avalanche Struggle to Secure Extension
Mikko Rantanen is open to a huge extension in Colorado, but if that doesn't come together, it appears there's plenty of interest in the trade market.
This off-season, Mikko Rantanen is expected to be one of the biggest names hitting the free agency market, although recent speculation has revealed that he may not make it that far.
While the Avalanche are reportedly working hard to sign him to an extension, trade rumours have swirled around his name as a result of the two sides not getting close to that long-term deal yet.
Now, things continue to heat up, as NHL reporter Nick Kypreos has revealed things may ultimately end in a trade with Colorado, as he noted that three teams have already expressed interest, but have thus far been shut down by the Avalanche.
«It's believed that three teams have made serious pitches for Rantanen, but have been turned down so far as the Avs still hope to re-sign him. Could Carolina have been one of them?»
Perhaps the most surprising part of Kypreos' report however was the naming of the Carolina Hurricanes as potentially one of those teams, as the team are already firming as Stanley Cup contenders in the Eastern Conference, as the addition of a former 100 point scorer would only further cement them so.
At this point, the most likely outcome remains that an extension is reached between the two, but if Colorado aren't willing to go to a number that Rantanen wants, a trade may net them the biggest positive outcome as they look to chase another Stanley Cup in 2025.
