With Martin Necas and Mikko Rantanen gone, they were seen as potential players in the UFA market. The Stankoven contract does not prevent that, as CapWages has Carolina’s cap space at $29.4 million.

After fumbling the initial Mikko Rantanen trade, the Carolina Hurricanes had to pivot for a better opportunity. In trading away Rantanen to the Dallas Stars, the Hurricanes got back star prospect ...

The Colorado Avalanche are under immense pressure. The organization went all-in once again at the 2025 NHL Trade Deadline after parting with superstar forward Mikko Rantanen earlier in the season.

With Martin Necas and Mikko Rantanen gone, they were seen as potential players in the UFA market. The Stankoven contract does not prevent that, as CapWages has Carolina’s cap space at $29.4 million.

This is the third edition of my top breakout candidates for each team in 2025–26, with the Atlantic Division covered here and the Central Division covered here.