Colorado Avalanche Prospect Signs In Sweden

Colorado Avalanche's pending restricted free agent forward Sampo Ranta has decided to embark on a new chapter in his hockey career.

The 22-year-old Finn has signed a two-year deal with MoDo Hockey, a team in the Swedish Elite League. This move offers Ranta an opportunity to showcase his skills and gain valuable experience in a different setting.

Avs prospect, forward Sampo Ranta has signed a two-year contract with MoDo hockey in Sweden. https://t.co/Gn52NN6l75

— Meghan Angley (@megangley) May 25, 2023

Ranta's transition from college to professional hockey hasn't been without its challenges.

In the 2022-23 season, he played 58 games for the Colorado Eagles in the AHL, where he managed to tally 11 goals and accumulate 22 points. Although he has made appearances in 16 NHL games, he is yet to record any points at the highest level of the sport.

Joining MoDo Hockey in the Swedish Elite League presents an exciting chance for Ranta to further develop his game. It will mark his return to European competition since his junior days with the Red Bull Hockey Academy in Austria back in 2015-16.

Sampo Ranta has left the Avs to sign a 2-year deal with MoDo of the Swedish League https://t.co/ghu3GPWmoz

Credit for getting story first to @megangley

— Adrian Dater (@adater) May 25, 2023

With MoDo Hockey, Ranta will have significant ice time and the potential to excel as a scoring leader in the league.

Despite his move overseas, the Colorado Avalanche still retain the option to issue a qualifying offer to retain Ranta's NHL rights.

This means that they can potentially bring him back to their roster in the future. However, for now, Ranta is focused on making the most of his opportunity with MoDo Hockey and continuing his growth as a player in the Swedish Elite League. Photo Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports