The Florida Panthers are reportedly showing interest in Mikko Rantanen, a high-profile player available ahead of the NHL Trade Deadline. Florida’s general manager, Bill Zito, has been busy in recent days, and reports indicate that the Panthers are one of several teams connected to Rantanen, who was previously traded to the Carolina Hurricanes from the Colorado Avalanche.
Rantanen, a versatile forward, was acquired by Carolina earlier this season, along with Taylor Hall from the Chicago Blackhawks, in exchange for Martin Necas, Jack Drury, and a couple of draft picks. Despite being traded, Rantanen is back on the market due to the Hurricanes’ inability to extend his contract, making him the top available player. Reports suggest that the Hurricanes had offered Rantanen an eight-year, $100 million deal, but his future remains uncertain as they look for a trade partner.
Pierre LeBrun of TSN recently stated that the Panthers, along with teams like the Vegas Golden Knights, Dallas Stars, and Los Angeles Kings, were in discussions about Rantanen’s potential move. However, the Panthers would only make a move for him if they could secure a contract extension beforehand. Although Florida doesn’t currently have enough cap space to accommodate Rantanen’s contract, the situation could be worked out with Carolina retaining some of his salary or a third team, like Chicago, helping with additional retention.
One of the primary challenges for Florida is the potential trade return for Carolina, which is also a contender in the Eastern Conference. The Panthers are unlikely to offer draft picks, as they don’t have many available, so players with valuable contracts like Sam Bennett, Aaron Ekblad, or Carter Verhaeghe could be discussed. However, trading these key players would disrupt Florida’s current lineup and create long-term complications, especially since several of these players are nearing free agency.
Rantanen has been a standout player for the Avalanche and continues to post strong numbers, with 27 goals and 70 points in 62 games this season. His playoff experience, including a stellar performance during Colorado’s 2022 Stanley Cup run, makes him an even more coveted asset.
While the Panthers are interested in Rantanen’s potential, they may be hesitant to disrupt their current roster, which has gelled well together. As Florida prepares for the trade deadline, they will likely continue to look for ways to improve, but acquiring Rantanen may not be the right move at the cost of their team’s chemistry.
Ultimately, while Rantanen would be a significant addition to any team, including Florida, it seems more likely he will end up with the Dallas Stars, who have been a strong contender in recent years. The Panthers, meanwhile, are likely to focus on smaller deals as the trade deadline approaches.
Trade Aaron Eckblad PLEASE