Mikko Rantanen's Fate With The New York Rangers Was Just Confirmed Following Latest Announcement
Mikko Rantanen is the next hot commodity on the trade block as six teams are rumored to be vying for his services. But the New York Rangers are not one of them.
With the Colorado Avalanche failing to extend superstar Mikko Rantanen, he's about to become a highly sought-after UFA.
The trade deadline begins in March, and GM Chris McFarland could look to unload Mikko Rantanen before free agency in July.
This could be the best time for the Avalanche forward to hit free agency, as he's come off of consecutive 100+ point seasons in the NHL.
He's shown versatility for the Avalanche, as he can play multiple positions, including center.
Instead of Taylor Hall being the top trade candidate, it should be Rantanen in everyone's crosshairs.
The team and Rantanen have failed to come to terms on a new contract, as it seems his demands may be too high for the Avalanche.
With the latest news from Bleacher Report, there are several teams interested in his services, and none of them are the New York Rangers.
Rantanen has scored 64 points( 25 G, 39 A) in 49 games this season, and is on pace for 107 points this year.
He's only missed two games in the past two seasons and has been a reliable contributor for the Colorado Avalanche.
Not only that, but he's proven he can play with elite talent, like Nathan MacKinnon which should increase his value significantly for the Avalanche.
If Jared Bednar and the Avalanche could find themselves on another playoff run, there's a chance the team could have to extend him.
However, if he does indeed walk into free agency without a contract, we should expect a bidding-war, if a trade doesn't happen before then.
It's hard to imagine that GM Chris Drury would pass up the chance to secure another 100-point forward for the team's ranks.
While Artemi Panarin is one of the most skilled forwards in the league, having a sniper like Rantanen would be an amazing complement to the first line in New York.
