DENVER (AP) — Mikko Rantanen took the ice for the first time as a member of the Dallas Stars against his former team, the Colorado Avalanche, on March 16, 2025. It was not just any game; this was his return to the place where he spent almost a decade, ending with him lifting the Stanley Cup. The night before the game, Rantanen enjoyed dinner with some of his old teammates, including Cale Makar, which added to the weight of emotions surrounding his return to Ball Arena.
"Playing against them is not fun, because they’re obviously good players and a good team," Rantanen remarked after the game, reflecting on the challenge of competing against his old friends. Despite these feelings, it was clear he was glad to see familiar faces again, as the crowd at Ball Arena honored him with cheers—often calling out his nickname, "Moose"—and some booing as well when he assisted on the Stars' first goal.
Makar proved decisive for the Avalanche, scoring just 34 seconds after overtime began, leading Colorado to a 4-3 victory. The game itself was thrilling. The Avalanche started strong, leading 3-1 before the Stars rallied, with Mavrik Bourque and Matt Duchene scoring within just 20 seconds of each other to tie the game.
Rantanen shared emotional moments throughout the game when video tributes highlighted his accomplishments, including those glory years with Colorado. Rantanen received heartfelt applause from fans who had once cheered for him as their own. "The fans had my back for 10 years, so it means a lot," he responded during the post-game interviews.
It's been quite the rollercoaster for Rantanen since his trade from Colorado. Originally selected 10th overall by the Avalanche in 2015, he was part of the team’s success, contributing to their 2022 Stanley Cup win. Rantanen was traded to Carolina on January 24, 2025, but just 13 games and six points later, on March 7, he was sent to Dallas. He agreed to an eight-year contract worth $96 million with the Stars, signaling his commitment to his new team. "I’m very happy to be here now," he said, confidently discussing his transition to the Stars, who have seen success over the past few seasons.
Dallas coach Pete DeBoer praised Rantanen's performance, stating, "I thought he handled it exceptionally well, considering the circumstances. He’s just going to get even more comfortable as time goes on." Rantanen’s transition also drew positive comments from teammate Matt Duchene, who expressed faith in Rantanen's potential impact: "I’ve seen what he can do. We’ve all seen it, and we’ll continue to see glimpses as he gets comfortable."
With Rantanen's abilities shining through and his earlier contributions notable, the Stars are eyeing playoffs with high hopes. Given the competitive nature of the Central Division, the Stars and Avalanche could be on track to meet again in the postseason, potentially rekindling rivalries. Last season, Dallas eliminated Colorado during the second round of the playoffs.
Reflecting on this budding rivalry, Rantanen stated, "It’s two good teams; it will be good, for sure." With their recent performance buoyed by strong plays and coordinated team efforts, both teams are poised to compete fiercely as they aim for the coveted Stanley Cup once more.
This year, the stakes are higher. The current playoff outlook indicates momentum for the Stars as they continue their home stand, driven by Rantanen's return, which has energized both the players and the fan base. Not just for his skills on the ice but for the spirit he shares with those who once rooted for him.
On this thrilling game day, fans were treated to the drama of overtime, where Makar’s clinching shot encapsulated the intensity and unpredictability associated with hockey. Both teams delivered high octane play, showcasing not just their skills but their aspirations as they aim for playoff glory.
The ramifications of Rantanen’s trade and his return to Colorado will ripple through the rest of the season, not just for him but for the Stars as they continue to solidify their roster and their path toward playoffs.
It is clear: Mikko Rantanen has embraced his role with the Stars, and his presence on the ice injects not only talent but also much-needed energy as the playoffs loom on the horizon.
Overall, this game was not just about the rivalry; it was about the spirit of hockey, community, and the enduring bonds formed on and off the ice. With each player striving for excellence, fans from both sides can expect many thrilling encounters as the NHL playoffs season approaches.
