NHL Rumors: Mikko Rantanen Not Ready to Commit to Hurricanes Contract amid Trade Buzz

The Carolina Hurricanes are reportedly gauging the trade value of star winger Mikko Rantanen in hopes of avoiding the possibility of losing him for nothing.

According to The Athletic's Pierre LeBrun, the Hurricanes "received clarity" from Rantanen's camp about "not being ready to make a decision on the team's contract offer by Friday's trade deadline." Carolina is now weighing potential trade offers for Rantanen versus keeping him on the roster "as a rental."

It was less than two months ago that the Hurricanes acquired Rantanen from the Colorado Avalanche on Jan. 24 as part of a three-team deal that also involved the Chicago Blackhawks. While in-season blockbuster trades are rare in the NHL, the Avalanche were also at a contract stalemate with Rantanen and didn't want to lose him without getting assets back in return.

Chris Johnston of The Athletic reported that Carolina made "a pitch to sign Rantanen to a nine-figure extension during the 4 Nations break" but was told there would be no immediate decision. Since exploring possible trades for the 28-year-old, the Hurricanes "have received interest from the Dallas Stars, Vegas Golden Knights and Florida Panthers, among others."

Rantanen has appeared in 12 games for Carolina and recorded two goals and four assists. At the time of his trade from Colorado, he was leading the team with 25 goals while also adding 39 assists.

At 36-22-4, the Hurricanes rank second in the Metropolitan Division entering Thursday night's game against the Boston Bruins (28-27-8). Time is ticking for Carolina to try to flip Rantanen in another deal as the franchise tries to solidify itself as a contender for the Stanley Cup this season.