Blockbuster NHL Trade; Mikko Rantanen Moves to Carolina Hurricanes
The Colorado Avalanche have traded star forward Mikko Rantanen to the Carolina Hurricanes in a blockbuster three-team deal that also involves the Chicago Blackhawks. The trade, announced on January 24, 2025, sees Rantanen and former Hart Trophy winner Taylor Hall heading to Carolina, while the Avalanche receive Martin Necas, Jack Drury, a 2025 second-round draft pick, and a 2026 fourth-round pick. The Blackhawks, in addition to retaining 50% of Rantanen’s salary, reacquire their own 2025 third-round pick.
Rantanen, 28, has been a cornerstone of the Avalanche’s success, helping the team win the Stanley Cup in 2022. This season, he has tallied 25 goals and 64 points in 49 games, continuing his streak of elite offensive production. However, with Rantanen set to become an unrestricted free agent in the summer and reportedly seeking a contract similar to Leon Draisaitl’s $14 million annual deal, the Avalanche opted to move him now rather than risk losing him for nothing.
In return, Colorado acquires Martin Necas, a 26-year-old forward who has 16 goals and 55 points this season. Necas, known for his speed and playmaking ability, is under contract for one more season at $6.5 million. Jack Drury, a 24-year-old center, also joins the Avalanche, adding depth to their lineup. The draft picks provide Colorado with additional assets as they look to retool for future success.
For the Hurricanes, the addition of Rantanen and Hall significantly bolsters their offensive firepower as they aim to make a deep playoff run. Rantanen’s elite scoring ability and Hall’s veteran presence could be the missing pieces for a team that has consistently fallen short in the postseason. Meanwhile, the Blackhawks, in a rebuilding phase, gain financial flexibility and a draft pick while facilitating the trade.
This deal marks a seismic shift in the NHL landscape, with the Hurricanes emerging as strong contenders in the Eastern Conference, while the Avalanche pivot to a new chapter without one of their franchise icons.
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