Avalanche's Mikko Rantanen Targetting Record-Breaking Contract: Report

Mikko Rantanen’s upcoming contract negotiations with the Colorado Avalanche are already generating buzz, with TSN’s Pierre LeBrun reporting a possible asking price.

The winger and his agent believe Rantanen could command a $14-million average annual value (AAV) on the open market, according to LeBrun's information.

The figure would match the highest in NHL history, tied with Leon Draisaitl’s new deal with the Edmonton Oilers.

“I will tell you, right now, I think Rantanen believes he can make $14M AAV on the open market,” LeBrun said on TSN's "Insider Trading" on Thursday.

The Avalanche, however, may cite Nathan MacKinnon’s $12.6-million AAV as part of an internal cap structure to keep salaries in check and potentially might agree to a discount deal if he re-signs with the franchise.
Rantanen, who is on pace for another stellar season with 32 points in 23 games, is set to become an unrestricted free agent next summer when he completes his $55.5 million contract.

Despite the potential for a massive payday, LeBrun thinks it’s more likely Rantanen will sign an extension with the Avalanche to stay in contention for the Stanley Cup rather than explore alternatives in the open market.

Rantanen has expressed his desire to stay in Denver, but it's fair to assume his camp will argue that the NHL’s salary cap landscape has shifted significantly aiming to land a bigger deal.

I was asked if I think the Mikko contract will be distracting this season.

Not one bit.

I think Mikko will let his team handle everything and he'll just look to get better on the ice. pic.twitter.com/zQOPYdospb
— Rachel Vigil (@heyrachelvigil) September 20, 2024
“I like the team, I like the city. If you win a Stanley Cup here, why would I want to leave, you know? Rantanen said before the start of the season. "That’s the only thing I want to say about it. We’ll see, it’s done when it’s done,” Rantanen said.

As one of the NHL’s most productive wingers—boasting 649 points in 593 regular-season career games—Rantanen’s value is undeniable for the Avs so it's reasonable for them to try and keep him in tow, even if he breaks the franchise's salary scale.