Hurricanes Go All-In on Mikko Rantanen with Blockbuster Contract Offer
The Carolina Hurricanes are making a bold effort to secure Mikko Rantanen for the long haul after acquiring him in a high-profile trade this past January. According to ESPN insider Kevin Weekes, the Hurricanes have put a massive contract offer on the table, reportedly ranging between $13 million and $14 million per year.
During the 4 Nations Face-Off break, Carolina’s front office met with Rantanen’s camp, presenting what Weekes described as an “aggressive” proposal. “They’re coming in strong,” Weekes stated Monday. “I’m told the offer is north of $13 million, somewhere between $13 and $14 million.”
Despite the lucrative deal, Rantanen has yet to make a decision about his future. The Finnish forward, who was previously with the Colorado Avalanche, is in the final year of his six-year, $55.5 million contract, which expires at the end of June. If an extension isn’t reached, he will hit unrestricted free agency on July 1.
Adjusting to Carolina hasn’t been seamless for Rantanen, as he has struggled to find his groove since the trade, managing only three points in seven games. Weekes acknowledged that the transition has been challenging but believes both sides remain committed to working out a deal. “It’s a lot to take in getting traded, settling in, and negotiating a contract extension,” he said. “But I think both parties will keep pushing forward.”
Meanwhile, NHL insider Pierre LeBrun dispelled any speculation that Carolina is looking to move Rantanen, emphasizing that there’s no indication the Hurricanes are shopping him around. “I’ve found zero evidence of Carolina initiating trade discussions involving Rantanen,” LeBrun reported Monday.
Despite his recent struggles, Rantanen has still put up strong numbers this season, tallying 67 points in 56 games split between Colorado and Carolina. The Hurricanes remain determined to lock him in as a key piece of their future.
