The Colorado Avalanche are still adjusting after trading star forward Mikko Rantanen to the Carolina Hurricanes, a challenge that’s proving tough for any team. Since the trade, the Avs have dropped two of their last three games.
However, one bright spot for the team is veteran winger Artturi Lehkonen, who has stepped up in Rantanen’s absence. Since joining the Avalanche in 2022, Lehkonen has been a key contributor, and now it seems he’s taking on an even bigger leadership role in the locker room.
Lehkonen is also making a significant impact on the ice. He’s currently on a three-game goal streak, bringing his season total to 21 goals in just 40 games, matching his career-high from the 2022-2023 season. He shows no signs of slowing down offensively.
Perhaps even more crucial is the leadership Lehkonen provides off the ice. While Nathan MacKinnon, the reigning MVP, was caught off guard by Rantanen’s departure, Lehkonen brings a unique perspective. Unlike MacKinnon and Rantanen, Lehkonen wasn’t drafted by the Avalanche; instead, he came in as an outsider, much like recent additions Martin Necas and Jack Drury. Now, three years later, Lehkonen serves as a model for these newcomers, demonstrating the hard work and commitment to two-way play that has helped him thrive with the Avalanche.
While the team’s overall outlook may be uncertain, Lehkonen’s individual performance has never been more promising. He’s seizing the increased opportunity created by Rantanen’s departure, and if the Avalanche are to make a deep playoff run, Lehkonen will be a key player in filling the offensive gap.