Mikko Rantanen's reported new contract with the Avalanche set to make history

The Avalanche have been a dominant team in the NHL for years. Since relocating and rebranding from the Quebec City Nordiques in 1995-1996, they've made the playoffs 20 out of 28 seasons and won 3 Stanley Cups, most recently defeating the Tampa Bay Lightning in 2022.

Among their star players are Nathan MacKinnon and Mikko Rantanen, who have become a key forward duo. As of the end of March, they ranked third in points earned by teammates since the 2015-16 season, just behind Nikita Kucherov and Steven Stamkos of the Tampa Bay Lightning.

The Avalanche are reportedly working on a long-term extension with the 27-year-old Rantanen, who is entering the final year of his 6-year contract worth over $9 million annually. The new contract is expected to last 7-8 years.

Nathan MacKinnon is on a contract worth $12.6 million annually until 2031. With Rantanen's expected contract extension, the duo could become the highest-paid in NHL history, surpassing Auston Matthews and William Nylander of the Toronto Maple Leafs, who currently earn a combined $24.75 million annually.

While details of Rantanen's upcoming contract aren't disclosed, it's likely he will receive a substantial salary from the Avalanche. However, whether he can secure a contract paying more than $12.15 million yearly remains uncertain.

Source: PuckPedia
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