Sure! Here's a rewritten version: **Breaking Down the Mikko Rantanen Trade: The Story, Timing, and What Comes Next** Let’s dive into the Mikko Rantanen trade: how it unfolded, why it happened at this moment, and what lies ahead for both Rantanen and the team involved.

 

The Avalanche have made a shocking move.

Mikko Rantanen is heading to the Carolina Hurricanes in a surprising, intricate deal on Friday night, with the Chicago Blackhawks also involved.

In return, Colorado receives forwards Martin Necas and Jack Drury, along with a 2025 second-round pick and a 2026 fourth-round pick from the Hurricanes.

Chicago has agreed to retain half of Rantanen’s contract for the remainder of the season and sends Taylor Hall to Carolina.

Rantanen, 28, is in the final year of his contract, currently sitting with 64 points, which ranks sixth in the NHL. Despite negotiations throughout the season, the Avalanche and Rantanen's camp have struggled to agree on an extension. Rantanen was seeking a deal similar to Leon Draisaitl's recent eight-year, $112 million contract ($14 million AAV), while the Avs were trying to keep him under MacKinnon’s $12.6 million AAV.

Rantanen has been a star for Colorado, ranking seventh in franchise history in points and fourth in the league since 2020-21. He played a pivotal role in leading the Avalanche to the 2022 Stanley Cup.

Necas has 55 points in 49 games and is signed for another year at $6.5 million. Drury, on the other hand, is in the first year of a two-year deal worth $1.725 million per season, with nine points in 39 games.