The Dallas Stars have acquired Mikko Rantanen from the Carolina Hurricanes in a blockbuster trade-and-sign deal. The trade includes Rantanen, who has agreed to an 8-year, $96 million contract extension with the Stars. The Hurricanes will receive 22-year-old forward Logan Stankoven, first-round picks in 2026 and 2027, and third-round picks in 2026 and 2027 in return.

The acquisition of Rantanen is a significant move for the Stars, who are looking to shift the balance of power in the Western Conference. Rantanen's impressive stats, including being tied for 10th in the NHL in points this season, and his experience in the playoffs, make him a valuable addition to the team. The Stars are banking on Rantanen's ability to perform under pressure, having averaged 1.25 points per game in the postseason and helping the Colorado Avalanche win a Stanley Cup in 2022.

Rantanen's career has been marked by impressive performances, including back-to-back 100-point seasons. However, his time with the Hurricanes was short-lived, lasting only 42 days. Despite his modest stat line with the Hurricanes, Rantanen's overall trade value remained high due to his consistent performance over the past five seasons, averaging 1.09 points per game in over 600 NHL regular-season games. The Stars are hoping that Rantanen will find his groove with the team and help them make a deep run in the playoffs.