Necas on Rantanen Speculation: ‘They Probably Should Have Known That He Would Sign In Carolina’

Mikko Rantanen’s future with the Carolina Hurricanes remains uncertain less than 24 hours away from the NHL trade deadline.

After speculation began to ramp up about him potentially being traded again, former Canes forward Martin Necas chimed in on what he thinks about the entire ordeal.

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Necas, along with Jack Drury and two draft picks, were sent to Colorado in the three-way deal for Rantanen almost six weeks ago. The Hurricanes have since tried to lock up the Finnish winger to a max-term contract upwards of $100 million, making him the highest-paid winger. But Rantanen’s camp has not agreed to the extension.

“Obviously, I’ve seen [the rumors]. I still talk to the guys on the other team, too. It’s a tough position for them,” Necas said ahead of Colorado’s matchup against San Jose. “They probably should have known that he would sign in Carolina if he gets there.”

Necas has 13 points in as many games since the trade but Rantanen has struggled in Rod Brind’Amours system, scoring two goals and adding four assists in 12 games. Carolina has played a lot on the road since he joined the team and had a flu bug run through the dressing as well. Their struggles could ultimately be connected to that, but the lack of an extension before Friday’s deadline has put them in a difficult position.

Especially given recent reports that a sign and trade to the right team is on the table.

It’s also being speculated that Rantanen remaining with Carolina through the trade deadline is still an option, too. Even without an extension.

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General manager Eric Tulsky has canvassed the league to see what offers are out there for the two-time 100-point producer.

“I don’t know if he’s signing or not. But there’s lots of rumors. Nobody’s gonna know until something happens,” Necas said. “I wish them, all the guys [in Carolina], the best of luck. And whatever happens, happens.”

Avalanche Head coach Jared Bednar was also asked about the possibility that Rantanen gets moved this week.

“I don’t think that’s because of Mikko’s play. He certainly didn’t get moved out of here because of his play,” Bednar said. “This is more of a business situation. … I think he’s a fit on any team in the league, including Carolina.”

For context, the Necas interview from this morning’s skate is linked below on the Colorado Hockey Now YouTube page. His response starts at 1:40. Don’t forget to subscribe!