As the Colorado Avalanche approach the midpoint of the 2024-2025 NHL season, tension mounts within the front office over the future of their star forward, Mikko Rantanen. The Finnish winger, who has been a cornerstone of the Avalanche’s success, is reportedly seeking a monumental salary in his next contract, a figure that could reshape the team’s financial landscape.
The Salary Standoff
Rantanen, a pending free agent, has yet to make significant progress with the Avalanche on a long-term contract extension. According to David Pagnotta of The Fourth Period, Rantanen is eyeing a hefty $14 million per year. This figure, if agreed upon, would not only make him the highest-paid player on the Avalanche roster but also one of the top earners in the NHL.
“Does $14 million x 8 years get things done between the Colorado Avalanche and Mikko Rantanen?” Pagnotta writes. “It sure sounds like that’s the starting point on an AAV he’d command as a free agent, if he gets to July 1.”
This prospective deal would surpass the current salary of MVP forward Nathan MacKinnon, who earns $12.6 million annually, and dwarf the $9 million per year that Norris Trophy-winning defenseman Cale Makar receives.
Rantanen’s Impressive Track Record
Rantanen’s demand for such a substantial salary is backed by his outstanding performance on the ice. Since debuting in the NHL with Colorado, he has been one of the league’s most prolific forwards. In 603 NHL games, Rantanen has amassed 280 goals and 384 assists, totaling 664 points. He has consistently maintained a point-per-game average or higher in six of his eight full seasons and is on track to do so again this season with 18 goals and 47 points in just 33 games.
This level of productivity not only highlights his value to the Avalanche but also signals to other teams that he could be a game-changing acquisition should he enter free agency.
The Avalanche’s Dilemma
The Avalanche face a significant dilemma. With Rantanen seeking a record-breaking contract, the team must weigh the benefits of securing his services against the financial strain such a deal would impose. The franchise is well aware that failing to meet Rantanen’s asking price could result in losing him to a competitor willing to pay top dollar for his talents.
Moreover, the Avalanche must consider their broader financial strategy. With key players like MacKinnon and Makar also deserving of future raises, Colorado’s management must navigate a complex salary cap situation to maintain a competitive roster.
The Clock is Ticking
As the season progresses, the urgency to reach an agreement with Rantanen intensifies. While there is still ample time for negotiations, the lack of movement thus far suggests that a resolution may not be imminent. The possibility of Rantanen testing the free agency waters grows more plausible with each passing day.
For the Avalanche, the stakes are incredibly high. Securing Rantanen’s future in Colorado could solidify their status as a perennial contender, but it will come at a considerable cost. The coming months will be crucial in determining whether the Avalanche are willing to meet Rantanen’s demands or risk losing one of the NHL’s elite forwards to the open market.
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