The Carolina Hurricanes are proactively exploring trade scenarios for Mikko Rantanen as the NHL trade deadline approaches. With Rantanen unlikely to sign an extension before the deadline, the Hurricanes have intensified discussions with his agent and other teams. They are weighing options for both rental and extended trades, considering the potential salary retention to facilitate a deal. Teams like the Toronto Maple Leafs, Dallas Stars, and Los Angeles Kings have expressed interest, though the Hurricanes may opt to keep Rantanen for a playoff push if offers don’t meet their expectations.

Meanwhile, the New Jersey Devils face significant injury setbacks with Jack Hughes out for the season and Dougie Hamilton sidelined for weeks. Despite this, GM Tom Fitzgerald is expected to remain active in the market, potentially inquiring about Rantanen. The ongoing developments with Rantanen are pivotal not only for the Hurricanes' future but could also reshape the playoff landscape if he moves to a contender.

The Dallas Stars are eyeing a potential move for Mikko Rantanen of the Carolina Hurricanes as the NHL trade deadline approaches. With teams like the Toronto Maple Leafs and Los Angeles Kings also interested, the competition is heating up. Rantanen is a significant asset, having posted 70 points in 61 games this season. However, the Hurricanes' asking price is expected to be steep, especially considering Rantanen's contract situation and his recent trades this season. The Stars have already made moves to strengthen their lineup, but acquiring Rantanen could elevate their playoff ambitions significantly.

With the deadline looming, the Stars' management faces pressure to enhance their roster. Rantanen has made an impact with both the Avalanche and Hurricanes this season, and his scoring prowess could be the key to unlocking more offensive depth for the Stars as they aim for success in the postseason.

The Carolina Hurricanes are reportedly looking to trade Mikko Rantanen ahead of the upcoming deadline, as they face challenges in re-signing the Finnish winger. After acquiring Rantanen from the Colorado Avalanche, his performance with the Hurricanes has not met expectations; he has recorded only six points in twelve games compared to Martin Necas, who has 13 points in the same timeframe. Rantanen's current cap hit stands at $4.63 million, but the Hurricanes could lower this to as low as $2.3 million if they decide to retain part of his salary in a trade.

The Hurricanes currently hold a 36-22-4 record and are poised as contenders in the Metropolitan Division, second in odds to win the Stanley Cup at +750. However, their future prospects hinge on the outcome of the Rantanen situation. Trading him could yield valuable assets to bolster their roster, while retaining him could potentially unlock his superstar potential.

The New Jersey Devils are aggressively pursuing centers as they assess the potential long-term absence of Jack Hughes. With a challenging market, GM Tom Fitzgerald may need to act decisively, especially if Hughes requires surgery. The Devils have made inquiries about Colorado's Mikko Rantanen, indicating a readiness to explore significant trades before the deadline. Meanwhile, the Vancouver Canucks are also on the hunt for a skating center, prioritizing speed and depth on their blue line. The Canucks may target players like Scott Laughton or Brock Nelson, as they look to improve their lineup amid a competitive landscape.

The Los Angeles Kings are actively exploring trade options as the NHL trade deadline approaches, with over $4 million in salary cap space. Their willingness to part with a first-round pick opens possibilities for acquiring players like Kyle Palmieri, Brock Boeser, and Alex Tuch. While Boeser may be off the table due to divisional rivalry, the Kings are weighing their choices thoughtfully. Meanwhile, the Carolina Hurricanes are in a tight spot with Mikko Rantanen, expected to remain unless offered an extravagant deal.

In the wake of Jack Hughes' injury, the New Jersey Devils are seeking second-line center options to fill the gap. Names like Brayden Schenn and Casey Mittelstadt are on the radar, as the Devils aim for a versatile player who can shift roles post-Hughes' return. The trade landscape is buzzing with potential deals that could reshape playoff scenarios.