The Dallas Stars are gearing up for what they hope will be a turnaround after suffering through three losses on their recent road trip. Their latest challenge came from the Colorado Avalanche, where former Avalanche player Mikko Rantanen made headlines on March 17, 2025. This match was Rantanen's first against his old team after being traded to the Stars.
Last Saturday, Rantanen shared dinner with some familiar faces from his past team before stepping on the ice as their fierce competitor. "Playing against them is not fun because they’re obviously good players and a good team," he reflected. The evening was heightened when the Colorado fans gave him mixed reactions, leading to memorable moments as he tapped his heart when highlights of his decade-long career flashed on the screen.
The game itself was intense, with Cale Makar scoring just 34 seconds through overtime to secure the Avalanche’s 4-3 victory against the Stars. Rantanen noted, "Obviously, the video and reception from the fans, I’ll never forget. The fans had my back for 10 years, so it means a lot." His emotional rollercoaster spoke volumes about his affinity for the team he helped secure the Stanley Cup for back in 2022.
Rantanen’s transition to the Stars follows a complex chain of events. The talented forward was originally traded to Carolina on January 24, 2025, as part of a three-team deal. Upon arriving in Carolina, Rantanen played 13 games, contributing two goals and four assists. He then endured another trade; on March 7, 2025, he joined the Stars, now well-positioned for another playoff run following his eight-year, $96 million contract agreement.
The Stars already have shown promise this season with Rantanen fitting seamlessly alongside teammates such as Matt Duchene, who expressed confidence in Rantanen’s adjustment. “I’ve seen what he can do. We’ve all seen it, and we’ve seen glimpses of it,” Duchene said, indicating how well Rantanen is developing with each game.
Back at home, the Stars face the Anaheim Ducks on March 18, 2025, after uneasy performances against two teams they should have beaten. Currently standing with a record of 42-21-3 overall and 24-7-1 at home, Dallas looks to regain its momentum against Anaheim. The Ducks have struggled with a dismal road record of 13-16-5 this season.
Before the game, American Airlines Center will host Noche Mexicana, celebrating Mexican American culture, featuring pregame festivities including food trucks and performances. Last year's celebration was well attended, and fans can expect the same energy this year with gifts for early arrivals, including branded Dallas Stars bandanas.
Recently, the Stars have faced challenges on the ice. Their last ten games show a record at 6-3-1, average goals at 3.9, with issues still arising, especially on defense, as they are conceding 3.2 goals per game. The Stars' all-star caliber players like Jason Robertson, who has scored nine goals and made six assists over his last ten appearances, might be pivotal as they strive to become playoff contenders.
Meanwhile, the Avalanche aren’t out of the woods yet either. They are expected to challenge the Stars again later this season as both teams eye playoff positioning. Rantanen is aware of the stakes and has not overlooked the necessity for heightened performances from here on out. The events of these recent matches will be pivotal as playoffs loom closer on the horizon.
Barring injuries, the teams appear to be well-matched for their upcoming clashes, giving fans plenty to anticipate. This season will be remembered for its unexpected trades and storied performances. Players like Rantanen are becoming focal points as they adjust not only to new teams but to the rising expectations of elite hockey performance this season.
