Mikko Rantanen's stunning on-ice blunder has Avalanche fans in total shock

This was not a near goal or a robbed highlight. The former Avalanche superstar simply fanned on the puck during his move, turning a breakaway moment into an awkward glide past the net.

It happened in the shootout on Saturday in a matchup between the Dallas Stars and Chicago Blackhawks, with the building buzzing as Rantanen stepped in with his usual calm. The setup looked familiar, the anticipation felt real, then the puck betrayed him.

The reaction online was instant because it was so unexpected. Rantanen is one of the league's most reliable finishers, especially when time and space open up in isolation.

For Dallas, the moment landed softly. Shootouts are weird, and one whiff does not erase years of clutch production from one of the Dallas' core stars.

Every Avalanche fan groaned, then laughed, because hockey humbles everyone eventually.

The fan did not come from panic or indecision. Rantanen committed to his move, shifted his weight, and simply missed the puck, which happens to every player no matter the skill level.

That is part of why the clip resonated. It showed the human side of a player who usually makes hard things look routine for Dallas.

Rantanen, now 29, has built his reputation on power finishes and quiet efficiency. Drafted tenth overall in 2015, he has piled up goals, assists, and playoff moments that matter far more than a shootout miscue.

From a team perspective, nothing changes. The Stars still rely on Rantanen to drive offense, protect pucks along the wall, and punish defenders who give him space in the slot.

The league loves these clips because they cut through the seriousness of the season. Even elite players get caught by bad ice, timing, or a split second lapse.

Rantanen's body language said it all. A small shrug, a skate to the bench, and the night moved on without drama.

It was a reminder that one whiff does not outweigh years of dominance. If anything, it made the star winger more relatable.

Next time he lines up alone at center ice, most people in the building will still expect the puck to end up in the net.