The NHL trade deadline is fast approaching, and one of the biggest names circulating in trade rumors is Mikko Rantanen. The elite winger, currently with the Carolina Hurricanes, has yet to decide on his long-term future, and speculation is mounting that he could be moved before the March 7 NHL trade deadline.
NHL insider Elliotte Friedman recently reported on Sportsnet’s Saturday Headlines that Rantanen is unlikely to make a decision about re-signing with the Hurricanes by the deadline. Friedman emphasized that this delay isn’t necessarily tied to Carolina’s contract offer but more about the whirlwind of being traded and adjusting to a new team.
With that uncertainty in mind, the Hurricanes could look to move Rantanen and capitalize on his value. And according to James Murphy, the Los Angeles Kings have emerged as a serious suitor for the Finnish sniper.
What Could a Mikko Rantanen Trade to LA Look Like?
Murphy’s report suggests that the Hurricanes, who are focused on strengthening their blue line, could demand Kings defensemen Jordan Spence, Brandt Clarke, and a first-round pick in return for Rantanen. Given that Rantanen has been a consistent 90+ point producer in the NHL, it’s no surprise that Carolina would seek a substantial return.
One key factor that could facilitate this trade is salary retention. If the Hurricanes agree to retain half of Rantanen’s $9.25 million cap hit ($4.625 million), the Kings could fit him into their lineup without significant cap gymnastics. This would make Rantanen even more attractive for LA as they look to add a game-changing forward for their playoff push.
From LA’s perspective, adding Rantanen would be a massive boost to an already potent offense. Pairing him with Anze Kopitar and Kevin Fiala could give the Kings one of the deadliest top-six units in the Western Conference. While losing a highly touted defensive prospect like Brandt Clarke would be a tough pill to swallow, the opportunity to acquire a true franchise winger doesn’t come around often.
Will the Kings Make Their Move?
If the Hurricanes decide to pull the trigger on a Mikko Rantanen trade, LA remains one of the most logical landing spots. They have the assets, the need for an elite forward, and the motivation to make a deep playoff run.
For now, all eyes will be on Carolina’s front office to see if they prioritize keeping Rantanen for a playoff push or cashing in on a blockbuster return. Either way, this is a situation that every NHL fan should be watching closely as we head toward the trade deadline.
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