In a significant development within the NHL, both the New York Rangers and the Los Angeles Kings are reportedly in a competitive pursuit to sign impending free agent Mikko Rantanen. Rantanen, currently with the Colorado Avalanche, has emerged as a highly sought-after talent due to his consistent high-level performance.
Recent reports indicate that contract negotiations between Rantanen and the Avalanche have stalled. The Avalanche have a self-imposed salary cap, with Nathan MacKinnon’s $12.6 million annual salary as the ceiling. Rantanen is reportedly seeking a contract in the range of $13 to $14 million per year, which exceeds the Avalanche’s current salary structure. This impasse has led to speculation that Colorado may consider trading Rantanen before the NHL trade deadline to avoid losing him without compensation.
The New York Rangers have been prominently linked to Rantanen. Discussions suggest that a potential trade could involve Rangers’ center Mika Zibanejad, who has five years remaining on his contract with an annual cap hit of $8.5 million. Acquiring Rantanen would provide the Rangers with a dynamic winger to bolster their offense, while the Avalanche would gain a skilled center with cost certainty.
The Los Angeles Kings are also reportedly interested in Rantanen. The Kings have been actively seeking to enhance their roster, as evidenced by their recent waiver of Arthur Kaliyev, who was subsequently claimed by the Rangers. citeturn0search1 While specific details of the Kings’ pursuit of Rantanen remain undisclosed, their interest underscores the competitive market for the star winger.
Both teams face challenges in their pursuit. The Rangers have recently committed significant financial resources to goaltender Igor Shesterkin, signing him to a record-breaking eight-year, $92 million contract extension. The Kings, on the other hand, would need to navigate their current salary cap situation to accommodate Rantanen’s desired contract.
As the trade deadline approaches, the competition between the Rangers and the Kings to secure Rantanen’s services is expected to intensify. The outcome will significantly impact the landscape of the NHL, potentially altering the balance of power within the league.
