Mikko Rantanen's explosive performance in the playoffs has solidified his status as a key player for the Dallas Stars, following a blockbuster trade from the Carolina Hurricanes. Scoring a hat trick in both the Game 7 against Colorado and the series opener against Winnipeg, Rantanen leads the postseason with eight goals and 15 points, showcasing why the Stars invested heavily in acquiring him.

Teams like Toronto, Florida, and Washington have also reaped the rewards of timely trades. Notably, players like Brandon Carlo and Brad Marchand are making significant contributions, while Scott Laughton and Seth Jones have been pivotal for their respective teams. With Rantanen's fiery start, Dallas has emerged as a co-favorite to win the Stanley Cup, alongside the Carolina Hurricanes.