The Toronto Maple Leafs made an aggressive play for star winger Mikko Rantanen ahead of Friday’s trade deadline, but their efforts were ultimately shut down by the Carolina Hurricanes. According to NHL insider Nick Kypreos on Real Kyper & Bourne, Toronto put together a blockbuster offer featuring top prospects Fraser Minten and Easton Cowan, along with two first-round picks.
However, the Hurricanes rejected the deal not because of value, but out of fear of facing Rantanen in the playoffs. Instead, they chose to send him west to the Dallas Stars, ensuring he wouldn’t become a postseason problem for them.
“The Leafs had Minten, Cowan, and two firsts on the table for Rantanen,” Kypreos revealed. “Carolina said no, worried they could run into Rantanen and the Leafs in the playoffs, so they sent him west.”
Toronto was reportedly ready to offer Rantanen a massive eight-year contract extension worth between $105 and $110 million, showcasing their long-term commitment to the Finnish star. Despite this, Carolina found Dallas’ package more appealing, which included NHL-ready prospect Logan Stankoven, two conditional first-round picks (2026 and 2028), and two third-round picks.
While Toronto’s offer was at least on par if not superior to Dallas’ proposal in terms of assets, Stankoven’s immediate impact potential may have given the Stars the edge. The 21-year-old center has already played 83 NHL regular-season games, including 59 this season, tallying 29 points (nine goals) with a +2 plus/minus rating.
Ultimately, the Hurricanes’ decision to move Rantanen out of the Eastern Conference speaks volumes. It signals their respect for the Maple Leafs as a legitimate playoff contender and their confidence in their own postseason aspirations. Carolina clearly wasn’t willing to risk a future showdown with Rantanen wearing blue and white a move that could have major implications in the battle for the Stanley Cup.
