2016-17 Rookie Spotlight: Mikko Rantanen

Welcome to another 2016-17 Rookie Spotlight, where I will be looking at rookies making their NHL debut during the 2016-17 season. (or who are still considered rookies for the 2016-17 season) Today we take a look at a rookie that is currently on fire! Mikko Rantanen

Name: Mikko Rantanen

Age: 20

Size: 6ft4 211 lbs

Hometown: Nousianen. Finland

Jersey #: 96

Drafted: 1st Round 8th Overall in 2014 draft by the Toronto Maple Leafs

Position: Right wing

Junior Team: TPS, Liiga

2016-17 stats: GP 45 G 11 A 21 Pts 31

Comparable NHL players: Corey Perry

Mikko Rantanen is one of the few bright spots on a rather weak Avalanche team. His recent hat trick against Montreal, is a testament of how talented this kid is. He is a big boy, who can rough his way around the net. Much like Corey Perry, he has a booming shot. He can lay down the hits as well, so he add's an element that not many players have.

Rantanen is the type of player, that can make everyone around him better. He is one of the few untouchables on a Colorado team that will most likely be in "fire sale" modr at the trade deadline. With more responsibility and experience, he could easily become a 30 goal and 70-80 point player. Also if he could add some more bulk, he would become an even more dominant player. There is not much in Colorado to be happy about this season. However, Rantanen give the Av's some hope for the upcoming years.

Just look at some of these goals by him:

His hat trick agains the Habs:

A turnover, and a quick release:

As far as rookie cards go, Rantanen has a plethora of 2015-16 rookie cards to choose from. His cards are currently at medium value, but that will change quickly. You can pick up his "The Cup" /249 Rookie Card on e-bay for around $100. That price will sky rocket shortly. Rantanen is definitely a player that collectors should invest him. The ceiling is very high for this young stud.