“I'm happy to be here”: Mikko Rantanen embraces new role with Dallas Stars, denies unhappiness in Carolina

Mikko Rantanen is happy to be with the Dallas Stars but insists he had no issues with the Carolina Hurricanes. Traded just before the deadline, he went to the Hurricanes with an open mind and gave his best effort. However, he felt a sign-and-trade would benefit Carolina more than keeping him as a rental. Now in Dallas, he’s excited for the future and already making an impact.

Mikko Rantanen denied having a list of preferred teams before joining Carolina. He was shocked to leave Colorado but gave his best effort. Near the deadline, he felt a sign-and-trade would benefit Carolina, leading to his move to Dallas.

“I saw some things were said that I had a list of teams ready when I went [to Carolina], but that's false," Rantanen said Wednesday. "Obviously, it was a big shock to leave Colorado, but I went [to Carolina] with an open mind and tried my best on the ice. When I put the jersey on there, I tried my best and just decided just a little bit before the deadline that Carolina would probably get a better return for me if I would do a sign and trade; that it would be better for their team rather than me being a rental and going somewhere to play. So that was the decision.”
Reflecting on his time with the Hurricanes, he acknowledged that he "tried his best" despite only playing 13 games and contributing six points. Adjusting mid-season was tough, but he appreciated the experience. Now with the Stars, Rantanen is optimistic about his role and has already made an impact, scoring a goal and an assist in his first game, though Dallas lost 5-4 to the Oilers.
"I'm happy to be here, it's been crazy for sure," Rantanen said. "Colorado was always where I wanted to stay, but I understand its business and they made a decision. I tried my best in Carolina and I'm here now and I'm so happy to be here, locked in for eight years with a good team and with good coaches. I'm thankful for Dallas to have the trust in me."
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Rantanen appreciated his time in Carolina but felt Dallas’ style suited him better, similar to Colorado.Coach DeBoer was surprised they could acquire him, calling it rare. Rantanen’s return to Colorado on Sunday will be emotional, but he’s excited to see old teammates.