The Carolina Hurricanes, with Mikko Rantanen, will be in action Thursday versus the Chicago Blackhawks at PNC Arena, beginning at 7:00 PM ET. Considering a bet on Rantanen in the Hurricanes-Blackhawks matchup?

The word “blockbuster” gets thrown around a little too often in today’s NHL, often for trades unworthy of the term, in the same way that anything might feel like a five-star meal to a starving man. But the deal that dropped on Friday night? That one deserves the title, no questions asked.

Laughlin said that he had predicted that Rantanen, a UFA after this season, would either sign with the Anaheim Ducks or the Columbus Blue Jackets. That's right, your Columbus Blue Jackets.

A new inside report has connected the Edmonton Oilers to signing Mikko Rantanen in free agency this season, and they may actually have the cap flexibility to make the deal without losing significant roster players.

The Avalanche began the process of moving on with its first win since the deal Sunday afternoon against the Rangers. Drury scored a goal. Necas was dynamic, collecting two assists and hitting both the crossbar and post with shots while playing in Rantanen’s old spot next to MacKinnon.

Mikko Rantanen has been traded to the Hurricanes in recent days. But even though the trade was unexpected, it doesn’t mean he will automatically continue his career in Carolina for the next few years.

Also: Will Alex Pietrangelo's 4 Nations opt-out lead to more stars prioritizing their health over the event? And who will replace him?

Rantanen has been an essential member of the Avalanche's core since arriving in 2015-16, having won the Stanley Cup in 2021-22. Widely regarded as one of the NHL's premier offensive talents, he stands among the league's top five scorers over the last five seasons.

The Carolina Hurricanes traded away a fan favorite in Martin Necas but they got back what they hope is a difference maker in Mikko Rantanen. Rantanen comes to Raleigh