On January 24, the Carolina Hurricanes made a significant trade for star winger Mikko Rantanen from the Colorado Avalanche. In a conversation with general manager Eric Tulsky, he was asked about the risks of acquiring a player like Rantanen, who was a pending unrestricted free agent.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding Rantanen’s future, Tulsky expressed confidence in the team’s ability to utilize cap space efficiently, even if Rantanen walks in the summer. While they hoped to extend him, the acquisition was made with the understanding that it could potentially be a one-year rental.
Tulsky’s comments indicated that the Hurricanes weren’t overly concerned about the possibility of Rantanen leaving after the season. With an open Eastern Conference, the team was willing to take a chance on acquiring a world-class player for the stretch run, without focusing too much on the long-term contract extension. The primary goal was to strengthen the team immediately and make a push for the playoffs, which seemed even more appealing given the lack of a clear juggernaut in the Eastern Conference.
No Active Trade Talks for Mikko Rantanen Despite Speculation and Extension Focus
Recently, speculation has arisen around whether Carolina would trade Rantanen if they cannot extend him by the March 7 trade deadline. However, there seems to be no evidence suggesting that Carolina is actively pursuing a trade for Rantanen. Reports indicate that some teams have inquired about the possibility, but there is no indication that the Hurricanes are initiating these conversations. This raises questions about the wisdom of trading a player they just acquired for a lower value than what they paid to bring him in.
Mikko Rantanen (NHL)As of the latest updates, Carolina’s main focus appears to be on extending Rantanen or at the very least keeping him as a rental for the rest of the season. The Hurricanes have reportedly made detailed pitches to Rantanen and his agent, aiming to convince him to stay. The team also recognizes that Rantanen is still adjusting to his new environment after the trade, which may be influencing his decision-making process. He is reportedly still considering his options before making a final commitment.
Tom Dundon’s Influence and Rantanen’s Future with Carolina Hurricanes
Despite the focus on retaining Rantanen, the situation remains uncertain, especially due to Hurricanes owner Tom Dundon’s involvement in team operations. Dundon is known for being more hands-on than many other NHL owners, and his frustration could influence the direction of the team.
If Rantanen doesn’t sign the extension presented to him, it’s possible Dundon could push for a trade to ensure the team doesn’t lose the player for nothing. While this scenario isn’t confirmed, Dundon’s influence is something to keep in mind.
Mikko Rantanen (NHL)There is also the possibility that another team might emerge as a contender for Rantanen’s services before the trade deadline, especially if that team is willing to offer an eight-year extension. Any team that acquires Rantanen before the deadline can offer him the maximum eight-year deal, which could make him more inclined to sign with them.
This could increase his trade value significantly compared to being dealt as a rental. However, it’s unclear why Rantanen would opt for a new team when he’s still adjusting to Carolina and has a chance to stay with a strong contender.
Carolina’s best move, according to the analysis, would be to keep Rantanen beyond the trade deadline, regardless of whether an extension is signed. The Hurricanes have the opportunity to make a strong playoff push with Rantanen’s help, and trading him before the deadline doesn’t make sense unless they have an immediate Plan B in place.
A possible backup plan could involve acquiring another player like Elias Pettersson from the Vancouver Canucks, but as of now, retaining Rantanen for the remainder of the season seems to be the most logical choice. If the team can’t secure an extension, a sign-and-trade scenario before July 1 remains an option, though complicated.
