Mikko Rantanen has 4-point 3rd period for Stars to unbelievably knock former team out of playoffs
DALLAS — Mikko Rantanen’s Hat Trick Leads Dallas Stars to Victory in Game 7 Against Colorado
Mikko Rantanen found himself in a surreal moment as he scored a hat trick in a Game 7 against his former team, the Colorado Avalanche. The Finnish forward, who spent 9 1/2 years with the Avalanche and won a Stanley Cup with them in 2022, was traded twice in a span of six weeks earlier this year.
In a thrilling matchup on Saturday night, Rantanen not only assisted on Wyatt Johnston’s tiebreaking power-play goal but also netted three goals in the third period to lead the Dallas Stars to a 4-2 comeback win over the Avalanche, clinching the first-round Western Conference series.
Reflecting on his emotional journey, Rantanen said, “It’s only a couple of months since I was still with them, playing with them, and chasing a playoff spot and stuff. And all of a sudden, a couple of months later, playing against them in a Game 7.”
With a standout performance in Game 7, Rantanen made NHL history by becoming the second player ever to record four points in the third period of a Game 7. He also became the first player to score a hat trick in the final period of a Game 7.
Stars coach Pete DeBoer praised Rantanen’s motivation and impact in the series, emphasizing his determination to make a difference against his former team. Rantanen’s journey to the Stars began with a trade from Colorado to Carolina, followed by a deadline deal to Dallas and a lucrative contract extension.
In his playoff career, Rantanen has amassed impressive numbers, including 101 points in 81 games for the Avalanche. His performance in the series against the Avalanche showcased his scoring prowess, with five goals and seven assists in seven games.
Colorado coach Jared Bednar acknowledged Rantanen’s ability to deliver in crucial moments, describing him as a pure goal scorer. Rantanen’s hat trick in Game 7 ultimately sent the Avalanche packing for the offseason.
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