Stars' Mikko Rantanen Faces Mixed Reviews in First Game Against Former Team Avs Post-Trade

DENVER — As highlight clips played on the big screens during Mikko Rantanen’s early moments with the Colorado Avalanche, he touched his chest affectionately, ending with scenes of him lifting the Stanley Cup.

On Sunday, the audience welcomed him with a blend of "Moose" chants—his nickname—and, naturally, some jeers.

Initially adored by fans, Rantanen has transformed into a formidable opponent since joining division rivals Dallas. This marks the first occasion during his National Hockey League tenure where Rantanen played as an away team member at a venue that had been his home ice for ten years.

No surprise, he heard the most boos when his name was announced on an assist to set up the first goal of the game for the Stars.

It can be quite moving," Dallas coach Pete DeBoer remarked ahead of the game regarding Rantanen’s comeback. "Fortunately, you only have to go through this once, after which it becomes part of your past. We will navigate this challenge today and subsequently focus on our progress.

Since being traded to Carolina on January 24, Rantanen has experienced a flurry of emotions. This unexpected move disrupted his dynamic partnership with Nathan MacKinnon. Selected tenth overall by Colorado in the 2015 draft, Rantanen was anticipating becoming a free agent this coming summer and believed negotiations between himself and the team were ongoing.

At the end of the day, my preference has always been to remain in Colorado," Rantanen stated on Saturday. "That was my intention, and I conveyed this message directly to the management team as well. I informed them that I would be adaptable; however, I comprehend the situation. There have been better players than myself who have been traded throughout NHL history. These things happen. They are simply a part of the sport.

Rantanen was well-liked in the locker room and played a key role as the Avalanche won the 2022 Stanley Cup. He still holds prominent positions on several of the team’s career leaderboards, ranking sixth with 287 goals.

In a three-way deal that brought Rantanen to Carolina, the Avalanche acquired forwards Martin Necas and Jack Drury.

I approached it with an open mindset, hoping to stay there for a long time," Rantanen stated. "I gave it my all.

He participated in 13 matches with the Hurricanes and scored two goals along with adding four assists.

On March 7, Carolina traded Rantanen to the Stars in exchange for forward Logan Stankoven and some draft picks. Rantanen then inked an eight-year deal worth $96 million.

I'm really pleased to be here right now," stated Rantanen after playing in his fourth game with the Stars on Sunday. "This is a strong team that has performed well and achieved success over the past few seasons. They boast a promising young nucleus, along with an excellent coach, making this a positive situation.

He was uncertain about how he would be received by the Avalanche fans.

“As I’ve mentioned numerous times, I never wanted to depart. It’s not as though I requested to go,” Rantanen stated. “I have fond memories of this place.”