THIS IS THE BEST NEWS WE COULD HOPE FOR: Colorado Avalanche National Hockey League (NHL) community are overjoyed as General Manager Chris MacFarland makes announcements of making Star Mikko Rantanen the new……

In what fans and analysts alike are calling a dream come true, Colorado Avalanche General Manager Chris MacFarland made a monumental announcement today: star winger Mikko Rantanen has been named the new captain of the Avalanche. The move comes as a thrilling development for the Avalanche community, signaling a new era of leadership rooted in skill, heart, and loyalty.

“This is the best news we could hope for,” said lifelong Avs fan Julia Mendoza, echoing the feelings of thousands across Colorado and beyond. “Mikko has given everything to this team, and now he’s leading it.”

A Natural Leader On and Off the Ice

Rantanen, 28, has long been considered one of the core pillars of the Avalanche roster. Drafted 10th overall in 2015, the Finnish forward quickly rose through the ranks to become one of the most dominant two-way players in the league. With a 2024–25 season tallying 96 points (42 goals, 54 assists), he proved once again why he’s an indispensable force.

But it’s not just his stats that earned him the “C” on his chest.

“Mikko leads by example,” said Coach Jared Bednar. “His work ethic, team-first mentality, and quiet confidence make him the ideal captain to carry this team forward.”

A Fitting Successor

Rantanen takes over the captaincy following the surprise retirement of longtime captain Gabriel Landeskog, who announced last month he would be stepping away from hockey due to ongoing injury setbacks. Landeskog, who captained the Avalanche for over a decade and helped lead the team to its 2022 Stanley Cup win, gave his full blessing to the decision.

“I can’t think of anyone more deserving,” Landeskog said in a video tribute. “Mikko’s been a brother to me on this journey, and I know he’s going to thrive in this new role.”

Fanbase Erupts with Excitement

Within minutes of the announcement, social media lit up with tributes to Rantanen, affectionately nicknamed “The Moose” by fans. Avalanche jerseys bearing the No. 96 with a captain’s “C” began trending online, and the team store reportedly saw a spike in pre-orders.

“This moment means everything to the community,” said Avs supporter Sam Reilly. “We’ve watched Mikko grow up with this team. He’s not just our best player—he’s one of us.”

Looking Ahead

With a core that still includes Nathan MacKinnon, Cale Makar, and Devon Toews, the Avalanche are once again poised to be strong contenders in the upcoming season. Now, with Rantanen leading the locker room, the team enters training camp with renewed energy and focus.

As for Rantanen himself, his message was short, humble, and powerful: