Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images
Originally posted on NHL Trade Talk | By Spencer Lazary | Last updated Jan 15, 2025 7:01 PM ET
Nick Kypreos has released another edition of his NHL trade bait board, and there are some interesting names on the list. One name that stands out is the Colorado Avalanche’s Mikko Rantanen. Kypreos reported that there have been deals on the table, but Rantanen has turned them down. Kypreos then suggests Rantanen trade could be a blockbuster move.
Here is his full quote:
“It’s believed that three teams have made serious pitches for Rantanen, but have been turned down so far as the Avs still hope to re-sign him.”
This got me thinking: what if one of those teams is the Toronto Maple Leafs? What if they can’t re-sign Mitch Marner, and the two teams swap superstar forwards? Who would say no to that trade?
Rantanen (Avalanche) for Marner (Maple Leafs) Trade Package?
What if the answer to the Maple Leafs’ playoff issues is a major roster shake-up? It’s been talked about before, but it typically doesn’t involve Toronto getting back a player of Rantanen’s skill level. For the Avalanche, they would be able to replace a 100-point player with one of the best wingers in the NHL. It could make a ton of sense for both sides. Therefore, Kypreos’ mention of Rantanen trade discussions becomes more relevant.
Rantanen, 28, currently makes $9.2 million per season. He has played 10 seasons in the NHL, all with Colorado. In those 10 seasons, he has scored 287 goals and 391 assists for 678 points. He has been a crucial member of the Avalanche, including their Stanley Cup run in 2022.
As for Marner, he is 27 and makes $10.9 million per season. He has played nine seasons in the NHL, all with the Maple Leafs. He has scored 208 goals and 491 assists for 699 points through those nine seasons. Although he hasn’t won the Cup with Toronto, he remains a key piece of their puzzle.
Both are looking to sign new deals. Both want big money. It could wind up the numbers are similar when all is said and done.
Potential Trade Proposal
It’s hard to say how both teams value their assets. However, if I were to speculate what the deal could look like, it might simply be a one-for-one:
Toronto Maple Leafs: Mikko Rantanen
Colorado Avalanche: Mitch Marner
Although this trade is unlikely to happen during the season, it could be explored in the offseason as part of a sign-and-trade if both organizations can’t reach extensions with their star players. It remains to be seen what will happen, but Kypreos suggests Rantanen trade scenarios could soon be in play.
This article first appeared on NHL Trade Talk and was syndicated with permission.
