The past 24 hours have seen Mikko Rantanen’s name become a focal point of trade speculation, rapidly ascending to the top of Los Angeles Kings NHL trade deadline wishlists. Indications suggest the Carolina Hurricanes are open to the possibility of trading their recent acquisition, stemming from their inability to secure a long-term contract with the winger thus far.
While the fluidity of NHL trades means circumstances could change, reports consistently indicate the Hurricanes have been actively assessing interest from teams across the league. Among the potential destinations that have repeatedly emerged in these discussions is the Kings.
Elliot Friedman, speaking on TNT noted that the Hurricanes won’t be parting with Rantanen for cheap. With this many teams in play, it will come down to who is the most desperate. After dropping five straight — getting outscored 21-8 over that span — desperation should be setting in for LA.
NHL Trade Deadline: Los Angeles Kings Out Of The Running For Mikko Rantanen
But, the central question surrounding Rantanen’s potential trade, as highlighted by the NHL insider, revolves around his willingness to sign a contract extension. “I think one of the biggest questions that’s being asked right now is will Rantanen extend?” the insider stated. “I think there are some teams that would look at him only as a rental, but I think there are other teams that would really like to see if they could sign him.” This suggests that while some teams might view him as a short-term acquisition, others are considering a long-term commitment.
According to Andy Strickland of Fansided, Los Angeles is not included in teams that would be willing to extend the Fin, which has effectively ended the Kings chance of solidifying a trade.
The Kings remain in talks with teams offering right-handed offensive weapons, such as New York Islanders winger Kyle Palmieri.