The Dallas Stars landed elite forward Mikko Rantanen from the Carolina Hurricanes on Friday prior to the NHL Trade Deadline and signed him to an eight-year contract, giving them the deepest forward group in the League and making them the front-runner to win the Stanley Cup.

Two of the league's best square off in a matchup that could repeat in June. Plus, updated playoff projections, draft lottery standings, more.

Mark Jankowski and Logan Stankoven each scored and Frederik Andersen was stout in net to lead the Hurricanes to a fourth straight win.

As it’s been over 24 hours since the 2025 NHL Trade Deadline closed, all the league’s eyes now turn to the sprint for the 2025 NHL Playoffs. There will be tight playoff races for placement and seedings for the first round.

The Stars are swinging for the fences by acquiring and signing Mikko Rantanen while the Hurricanes appear content to hit singles.

The Dallas Stars and Florida Panthers are the new favorites to win the Stanley Cup in 2025 after the NHL's trade deadline, showing +600 odds at ESPN BET.

The Hurricanes, with Mikko Rantanen playing on the top line with Sebastian Aho and Seth Jarvis, edged the Boston Bruins on Thursday, Jarvis scoring the winning goal with 18.6 seconds left.