As first reported by Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet, the Colorado Avalanche have agreed to terms on a six-year, $55.5 million deal with restricted free agent forward Mikko Rantanen. The contract will pay him $9.25 million per season.
Rantanen, 22, is now the highest-paid player on the Avs roster, making nearly $3 million more per season than linemate and All-Star Nathan MacKinnon.
The 2019 NHL All-Star recorded career highs last season in goals (31), assists (56), and points (87) while appearing in 74 games for the Avs. In the playoffs, Rantanen led Colorado in all three categories, scoring six goals, eight assists, and 14 points.
Rantanen will join the Avalanche at the conclusion of their preseason, as the Avs are currently in Dallas for their final exhibition contest against the Stars. He was one of the final three remaining restricted free agents in the NHL without a contract.
Rantanen Contract breakdown:
2019-20: $12 million
2020-21: $12 million
2021-22: $10 million
2022-23: $6 million
2023-24: $9.5 million
2024-25: $6 million