March 6, 2025 | 10:49am ET
TheFourthPeriod.com
HURRICANES ENGAGED IN RANTANEN TRADE TALKS
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Mikko Rantanen, forward
The Carolina Hurricanes have fully engaged in trade discussions with other clubs this week over superstar winger Mikko Rantanen, though the team is not yet set on dealing him as they weigh through offers.
Rantanen, whom the Hurricanes acquired from the Colorado Avalanche, through the Chicago Blackhawks, at the end of January, is in the final year of his contract and is eligible to become an undrafted free agent July 1.
He has informed the Canes he does not plan on signing a contract extension with the club ahead of tomorrow’s 3pm ET trade deadline, prompting Hurricanes GM Eric Tulsky to explore trade possibilities.
The Dallas Stars, Florida Panthers, Los Angeles Kings, Toronto Maple Leafs and Vegas Golden Knights are some the teams that have expressed interest in Rantanen, with some clubs also interested in signing him to an extension, which would help Carolina maximize a return.
As the Hurricanes continue to engage in Rantanen trade discussions, I’m told by multiple sources that the Panthers are one of the teams that have expressed serious interest.
— David Pagnotta (@TheFourthPeriod) March 6, 2025
During the 4 Nations Face-Off, word began to spread over Rantanen’s hesitancy to sign an extension with the Hurricanes at this point in time. TFP’s David Pagnotta first reported during the tournament that there was doubt he would commit by the deadline.
It is unclear as to the specific ask the Hurricanes have put out for Rantanen, though demands vary per team involved.
Rantanen remains No.1 on the TFP Trade Watch List.
According to Pagnotta, the Hurricanes have asked the Maple Leafs for Matthew Knies to be included in a deal, something Toronto GM Brad Treliving is not interested in doing without a long-term commitment from Rantanen.
The Stars are believed to be willing to include forward Mavrik Bourque as part of a deal.
In 12 games with the Hurricanes since joining the club, Rantanen has registered two goals and four assists for six points. He has 27 goals and 43 points for 70 points in 61 games total this season.