The Dallas Stars landed elite forward Mikko Rantanen from the Carolina Hurricanes on Friday prior to the NHL Trade Deadline and signed him to an eight-year contract, giving them the deepest forward group in the League and making them the front-runner to win the Stanley Cup.

Two of the league's best square off in a matchup that could repeat in June. Plus, updated playoff projections, draft lottery standings, more.

Mark Jankowski and Logan Stankoven each scored and Frederik Andersen was stout in net to lead the Hurricanes to a fourth straight win.

Let's take a look at which NHL teams improved the most, which took the biggest chances and which fell flat on its face on deadline day.

The Dallas Stars and Florida Panthers are the new favorites to win the Stanley Cup in 2025 after the NHL's trade deadline, showing +600 odds at ESPN BET.

The Stars are swinging for the fences by acquiring and signing Mikko Rantanen while the Hurricanes appear content to hit singles.

The Hurricanes, with Mikko Rantanen playing on the top line with Sebastian Aho and Seth Jarvis, edged the Boston Bruins on Thursday, Jarvis scoring the winning goal with 18.6 seconds left.