After a shocking blockbuster trade sent Mikko Rantanen to the Carolina Hurricanes, the focus has now shifted to whether the Hurricanes can re-sign the elite winger to a long-term contract. With no sign-and-trade included in the deal, Rantanen is on track to become an unrestricted free agent this summer.
According to NHL insider Andy Strickland, Rantanen could end up with the Edmonton Oilers in free agency. Strickland dismissed concerns about the Oilers’ salary cap situation, emphasizing that Rantanen and Oilers superstar Leon Draisaitl share the same agent, which could facilitate a Rantanen contract in Edmonton. While it remains a long shot, the Oilers are known to be aggressive when it comes to acquiring elite talent.
How Can the Oilers Afford Mikko Rantanen?
The Oilers’ current salary cap constraints would make signing Rantanen a significant challenge. However, there are multiple ways Edmonton could free up the necessary space. One option would be trading Evan Bouchard, who will be looking for a new contract with an AAV close to $10 million. Moving Bouchard would provide immediate relief, but losing a top young defenseman is a steep price to pay.
Another avenue the Oilers could explore is shedding contracts from players who lack no-trade protection. Viktor Arvidsson, Adam Henrique, and Brett Kulak could all be potential trade candidates. Edmonton may also consider buying out Evander Kane’s contract, assuming he is no longer on LTIR when the buyout window opens in June.
If the Hurricanes fail to lock up Rantanen before July 1, expect rumors to swirl around his potential destination. Edmonton has long been seeking a game-breaking winger to complement Connor McDavid and Draisaitl. Rantanen would fit the bill perfectly, providing elite scoring ability and a dynamic presence in the Oilers’ top six.
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