Mikko Rantanen has made it easier for Dallas fans to move on from the heartbreak of losing Luka Dončić.
Dallas Stars Daily Links: Luka Who?
Back in February, no one imagined Dallas could bounce back from losing a star like Luka Dončić. However, just a month later, another star would make his way to the team.
While it took some time for Mikko Rantanen to adjust after the trade, what we’ve seen this postseason makes it clear why Jim Nill made that move in March. Over the past few games, Rantanen has undeniably carried the Stars, leading them to two major victories: one that sent them to the second round and another that helped them take home-ice advantage from the Winnipeg Jets.
According to Dallas Morning News reporter Lia Assimakopoulos:
“Rantanen became just the third player in NHL history to score back-to-back hat tricks in playoff games, and the first in 40 years. He’s also the first player in Stanley Cup Playoff history to score multiple three-goal periods in a single postseason, and only the fourth player to do so in their career, joining legends like Wayne Gretzky, Maurice Richard, and Tim Kerr.”
Rantanen’s stellar performance hasn’t just earned him the admiration of Dallas fans—it’s also put him in the conversation for the Conn Smythe Trophy, awarded to the MVP of the playoffs. Per Assimakopoulos:
“He has scored or assisted on the Stars’ last 12 goals, dating back to Game 5 of the previous round. That’s a new NHL playoff record, surpassing the previous streak of nine goals.”
He leads the league in postseason points with 15 (eight goals and seven assists).
Incredible.
Despite some criticism Rantanen faced earlier in the season, it’s safe to say he’s silenced any doubters with his performance.
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