Top NHL Insider Disputes Mikko Rantanen-Dallas Stars Trade Reports

Most NHL fans woke up to the news that the Carolina Hurricanes and Dallas Stars had agreed to a blockbuster trade in the late-night hours that would send star forward Mikko Rantanen from the Metropolitan Division to the Central, pending Rantanen signs a contract extension with Dallas.

However, multiple reports emerged early Friday morning suggesting that Rantanen is asking for much more money than the Stars are willing to commit to him, and TSN’s Darren Dreger reported that the deal fizzled out.

“There is no deal between Dallas and Carolina for Mikko Rantanen,” Dreger stated. “It appears Carolina may have to go back to the drawing board. Doesn’t mean a deal/extension with Dallas can’t materialize, but it’s not there as of now.”

It's believed that Rantanen wants close to $14 million per year on a new deal, which would make him the highest-paid player in the NHL, just ahead of Toronto Maple Leafs superstar Auston Matthews, who makes $13.25 million per season.

Several reports have indicated the Stars aren't comfortable paying Rantanen more than $12 million per year.

However, during a radio appearance on Sportsnet 650, top NHL insider Elliotte Friedman disputed Dreger’s claims, hinting that the deal has already been finalized.