Avalanche’s Mikko Rantanen Trade Still on the Table: Report

*Avalanche Face Critical Decision on Mikko Rantanen’s Future*

The Colorado Avalanche are approaching a crossroads with star forward Mikko Rantanen, who’s in the final year of his contract. According to reports, if the Avalanche can’t agree on a contract extension with Rantanen before the March 7 NHL trade deadline, they will likely trade him.

Rantanen’s future with the team has been uncertain, with the Avalanche reportedly hesitant to offer him a deal exceeding Nathan MacKinnon’s $12.6 million annual cap hit. With the trade deadline looming, the situation is coming to a head, leaving Avalanche fans wondering what’s next for their star player.

_Mikko Rantenen’s Stellar Season Complicates Contract Negotiations_

 

Colorado Avalanche right winger Mikko Rantanen is having a phenomenal season, with 60 points in 44 games, comprising 25 goals and 35 assists, alongside an impressive +12 plus/minus. His current deal carries a $9.25 million cap hit, but he’s set to become an unrestricted free agent on July 1.

The rising NHL salary cap presents a double-edged sword: while it provides the Avalanche with more financial flexibility, it also empowers players like Rantanen to demand higher contracts based on a percentage of the cap. As a result, negotiations between Rantanen and the Avalanche are expected to be complex and potentially contentious. With the March 7 trade deadline looming, the situation bears close watching.

_Mikko Rantanen’s Contract Demands May Force Avalanche’s Hand_

Mikko Rantanen’s potential contract extension has sparked intense speculation. According to PuckPedia, if Rantanen signs for 15% of the projected $92.4 million salary cap, he’d earn $13.86 million annually, surpassing Nathan MacKinnon’s $12.6 million cap hit. TSN’s Pierre LeBrun believes Rantanen is aiming for a $14 million average annual value (AAV).

 

This development poses a dilemma for the Colorado Avalanche, a Stanley Cup contender. With Rantanen set to become an unrestricted free agent, the Avalanche risk losing him without compensation. If their season falters, they might opt to trade Rantanen rather than re-signing him. Currently holding a wild-card spot with a 26-17-1 record, the Avalanche’s decision will be influenced by their performance leading up to the March 7 trade deadline.