Mikko Rantanen Drives NHL GM of the Year Conversation

Mikko Rantanen's trade to the Dallas Stars has sparked conversation about the NHL GM of the Year award, with Jim Nill's credentials solidified after three straight wins. The Stars' general manager paid a heavy price for Rantanen, who is 29 and Hall-of-Fame bound.

What happened to Mikko Rantanen?

Mikko Rantanen was traded from Colorado to Dallas, with the Avalanche acquiring Martin Necas from Carolina in a separate deal. Colorado had Rantanen for nine years before making the difficult decision to part ways due to perceived unwillingness to play for an amount the Avs could handle.

Why it matters for Mikko Rantanen

Rantanen's talent is appreciated by executives, but his unwillingness to sign long term led to his trade from Carolina after just 13 games. The Stars' acquisition of Rantanen launched them on their third straight trip to the conference finals, with Rantanen scoring hat tricks in key games.

What comes next for Mikko Rantanen?

As the Stanley Cup playoffs wind down, the teams that got rid of Rantanen are thriving, with Colorado and Carolina succeeding in the postseason. Colorado's Martin Necas has filled the role Rantanen played to win the Cup in 2022, with 11 points in nine playoff games. The Avalanche are 8-1 in the postseason and a solid favorite against Vegas, while Carolina is 8-0 and resting since a week ago Saturday. Mikko Rantanen's impact on the NHL is evident, and his value as a player is clear, with many believing he would wear the burden of captain well for the Stars.