Rantanen has been an essential member of the Avalanche's core since arriving in 2015-16, having won the Stanley Cup in 2021-22. Widely regarded as one of the NHL's premier offensive talents, he stands among the league's top five scorers over the last five seasons.

Avalanche center Nathan MacKinnon extended Colorado’s lead in its Western Conference showdown against the Oilers with two first-period goals in rapid succession.

Draisaitl leads the league with 35 goals, while his 75 points on the year have him closing in on the only player with more, Nathan Mackinnon of the Colorado Avalanche (77). The fact he’s not even considered the Oilers’ best player is icing on Edmonton’s cake.

The Colorado Avalanche came into Thursday night with a primetime matchup that everyone wanted to see. The Edmonton Oilers have all the star power in the world and are seeking to win their first Stanley Cup in the Connor McDavid era.

Elliotte Friedman reports that money was one significant factor (perhaps the biggest) in the Colorado Avalanche’s decision to trade Mikko Rantanen.

The NHL salary cap is expected to rise significantly in the next few years, and while more teams won't spend to the limit, the Edmonton Oilers will benefit by having the financial power to spend to the cap.

However, one rivalry that a couple of the Oilers' best players enjoy is against the Seattle Kraken. The Kraken haven't been in the league for a long time, but Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl have enjoyed much success against them.

Mikko Rantanen an Edmonton Oiler? It may be a far-fetched thought and maybe even a pipe dream, but in the eyes of St. Louis Blues reporter Andy Strickland, the Finnish winger signing in Edmonton might be exactly what happens this summer.

Colorado Avalanche (27-18-1, in the Central Division) Denver; Saturday, 4 p.m. EST BOTTOM LINE: The Colorado Avalanche host the Dallas Stars after Nathan MacKinnon scored two goals in the Avalanche’s 4-3 loss to the Edmonton Oilers. Colorado has a 6-7-0 ...

Despite being a fan favorite and a key part of the Avalanche's recent success, the salary-cap reality forced their hand.

It is fascinating to look at the NHL over the same period of time. Kasper is right behind Martin Necas and Nathan MacKinnon in scoring (both have 12 points). Following behind him are Quinn Hughes (11), Mark Stone (11), and Connor McDavid (11).

Connor McDavid made his return to the lineup after serving his three-game suspension, and he came back in style with a goal as the Edmonton Oilers beat the Seattle Kraken 4-2.