Mikko Rantanen Faces Emotional Return to Colorado After Surprising Trade
Mikko Rantanen is set for an unusual and emotional night as he returns to Colorado for the first time since his unexpected trade to the Dallas Stars via the Carolina Hurricanes. After spending nearly a decade with the Avalanche, Rantanen was dealt to Carolina in a midseason move before being flipped again to Dallas at the trade deadline. Now, as he prepares to face his former team on Sunday, the 28-year-old forward admits the situation feels surreal.
“It’s definitely going to be weird,” Rantanen shared. “Spending nearly 10 years with one team, getting to know the city, and then suddenly having to return as a visitor—it’s a big adjustment. But I’m looking forward to seeing familiar faces and competing against old friends.”
Rantanen played a crucial role in Colorado’s success, amassing 681 points in 619 regular-season games and helping the team capture the Stanley Cup in 2022. Despite his deep ties to the Avalanche, he was traded to Carolina in January, a move that caught him off guard. In an earlier conversation with The Athletic’s Peter Baugh, Rantanen revealed he had been willing to take a hometown discount to stay in Colorado, making the trade even more unexpected.
However, with the Hurricanes struggling and Rantanen unwilling to commit to a contract extension before the deadline, Carolina opted to move him to Dallas. Shortly after arriving, he secured his future with the Stars, signing an eight-year, $96 million contract extension carrying a $12 million cap hit per season.
Explaining his decision, Rantanen emphasized the strong fit with his new team. “I thought about it a lot with my camp, and ultimately, Dallas just felt like the right place for me in every aspect,” he said.
As he steps onto the ice at Ball Arena for the first time in an opposing jersey, the reaction from Avalanche fans remains uncertain. Regardless of how the crowd responds, Rantanen is embracing the new chapter of his career.
“I’m happy in Dallas—it’s been a whirlwind, no doubt,” he admitted. “Colorado was where I always envisioned staying, but I understand it’s a business. The team made their decision, and now I’m here, locked in for eight years with a great organization. I’m grateful for the trust Dallas has shown in me.”
Rantanen’s homecoming is set to be an emotional and highly anticipated showdown, marking a significant moment in his career transition.
