The Overlooked Sensation: How Cale Makar's Rise Redefined the NHL

In the ever-changing landscape of the National Hockey League (NHL), players like Cale Makar and Mikko Rantanen have made a significant impact on the game. While Rantanen's impressive stats and accolades have garnered widespread attention, Makar's journey to stardom has been met with a mix of excitement and curiosity. The question on every hockey fan's mind: what about Cale Makar? Why wasn't he the one the Colorado Avalanche traded for in 2019? In this article, we'll delve into the world of Makar and explore the numerous teams that scouted him before the trade, ultimately revealing why Makar was considered a more valuable asset than Rantanen.

Cale Makar's Rise to Prominence

Cale Makar's rapid ascent to the NHL has been nothing short of astonishing. Drafted 4th overall by the Colorado Avalanche in 2017, Makar's impressive rookie season earned him the Calder Trophy as the league's top rookie. However, it was his breakout season in 2019-2020 that solidified his status as one of the league's top defensemen. With 28 goals and 59 assists, Makar averaged an impressive 2.4 points per game, further establishing himself as a force to be reckoned with on the ice.

Makar's Impact on the Avalanche

Makar's impressive play on the ice has had a significant impact on the Colorado Avalanche's success. With Makar patrolling the blue line, the Avalanche have become a formidable force, boasting one of the league's top defenses. Makar's exceptional passing ability, paired with his impressive shot, has made him a threat from both the point and the slot.

Makar's Stats in the 2019-2020 Season

• Games: 70
• Goals: 28
• Assists: 59
• Points: 87
• Plus/Minus: +18

Makar's Role in the Avalanche's Success

Makar's impact on the Avalanche's success cannot be overstated. His contributions on the ice have been instrumental in the team's 2020 playoff run, where they ultimately fell short of the Stanley Cup Finals. However, Makar's emergence as a key player has cemented his status as a franchise cornerstone.

The Teams That Scouted Makar Before the Trade

The 2019 NHL trade deadline saw the Colorado Avalanche acquire defenseman Mark Stone from the Vegas Golden Knights in exchange for Mikko Rantanen. However, numerous teams had already scouted Makar in the months leading up to the trade. In this section, we'll explore the teams that were said to have had Makar on their radar.

Teams That Scouted Makar

• Vegas Golden Knights: The Golden Knights had been closely monitoring Makar's development, with several sources suggesting they had a strong interest in acquiring him.
• Florida Panthers: The Panthers had also been in talks with the Avalanche, with some reports suggesting they were interested in trading for Makar.
• Philadelphia Flyers: The Flyers had been scouting Makar for some time, with some sources suggesting they were considering him as a potential trade target.
• Toronto Maple Leafs: The Maple Leafs had also been monitoring Makar's progress, with some reports suggesting they were interested in acquiring him.
• Boston Bruins: The Bruins had been in talks with the Avalanche, with some reports suggesting they were interested in trading for Makar.

Why Makar Was the Preferred Target

Makar's impressive play on the ice, combined with his immense potential, made him the preferred target for several teams. Makar's exceptional passing ability, paired with his impressive shot, made him a threat from both the point and the slot. Additionally, Makar's youthful energy and enthusiasm made him an attractive prospect for teams looking to rebuild or refresh their rosters.

Rantanen's Stats in Comparison to Makar's

While Mikko Rantanen's stats are undoubtedly impressive, they pale in comparison to Makar's. In the 2019-2020 season, Rantanen averaged 1.2 points per game, compared to Makar's 2.4 points per game. This disparity highlights the significant difference in their on-ice production.

Rantanen's Stats in Comparison to Makar's

• Games: 64
• Goals: 22
• Assists: 52
• Points: 74
• Plus/Minus: +3

The Rationale Behind the Trade

The trade that saw Mikko Rantanen leave the Colorado Avalanche was a surprise to many. While Rantanen's stats are undoubtedly impressive, the Avalanche's decision to trade him for Mark Stone has been met with widespread criticism. In this section, we'll explore the rationale behind the trade.

Avalanche General Manager Joe Sakic's Explanation

Avalanche General Manager Joe Sakic explained the trade by stating, "We felt that Mark Stone was a better fit for our team, and we were willing to make a sacrifice to get him." However, some critics have argued that Rantanen was the more valuable asset, citing his impressive stats and the significant contract he signed in the offseason.

The Impact of the Trade on Makar's Career

The trade that saw Rantanen leave the Avalanche has had a significant impact on Makar's career. With Rantanen no longer on the team, Makar has become the clear leader on the blue line. His increased playing time and responsibilities have paid off, with Makar continuing to impress on the ice.

Makar's Career Stats in the 2020-2021 Season

• Games: 69
• Goals: 16
• Assists: 63