The Dallas Stars and Colorado Avalanche head into Game Four of their playoff series as the Stars carry a 2-1 series lead. Thus far, the Stars have thus far been blessed with clutch scoring in the form of overtime goals from Colin Blackwell and Tyler Seguin. Even though the Stars are ahead in the series, the fact remains that they have yet to receive any support from Mikko Rantanen. The trade deadline acquisition has yet to live up to his playoff expectations. 

The Dallas Stars sent a message at the NHL Trade Deadline was a message that they were all in for the upcoming playoff run and beyond. The Stars struck a deal with the Carolina Hurricanes that sent Mikko Rantanen to Dallas. The Stars would send Logan Stankhoven and four draft picks. Within his limited time in Dallas, Rantanen has scored 18 points through 20 games with his third team of the season. The Finnish forward started the season with the Colorado Avalanche, and was traded to Carolina in January. Rantanen and the Hurricanes would not be able to settle on a long term contract, ultimately opening the door for a move to Dallas. 

With his ability to score, the 28-year-old also brings in his extensive playoff resume. Rantanen notched 34 goals and 101 points in 81 career playoff games during his time with the Avalanche. His playoff career-high in points(25) would come during the Colorado playoff run that would end in hoisting a Stanley Cup in 2022. With the  almost endless list of stats and accomplishments, it is almost puzzling that the fresh face Stars player has been invisible through the first three games of the series. One would figure the opportunity to become the star with his new club after so many years of playing second fiddle to Nathan MacKinnon and Gabriel Landeskog would be too good not to capitalize on. It has been the opposite thus far, with Rantanen posting one point and a plus-minus of -3. 

If Rantanen wishes to become the superstar he and all fans wish him to be, he must step up and take control. Now is also the time for him to prove that not only Colorado and Carolina made a mistake by trading him, but also that he is worth every penny of his $96 million contract. Rantanen and the Stars will be back in action tonight for Game 4. Puck drop is set for 8:30pm CDT, and can be viewed on TBS, TruTV, MAX, and Victory+. 

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