In a surprising move, the Ottawa Senators have signed Russian forward Vladimir Tarasenko to a one-year, $5 million contract. The deal comes after Tarasenko expressed his desire to leave the St. Louis Blues, the team he has been with for his entire NHL career.
Tarasenko, 29, is considered one of the league’s top scoring threats when healthy. However, injuries have plagued him in recent seasons, limiting his playing time and production. Despite this, the Senators are taking a calculated risk by bringing him on board.
The decision to sign Tarasenko stems from Ottawa’s need for offensive firepower. Last season, the Senators struggled to find consistent scoring, finishing near the bottom of the league in goals scored. By adding Tarasenko to their roster, they hope to address this issue and provide a much-needed boost to their offense.
The Russian winger has a proven track record of success in the NHL. In his best season, 2015-2016, Tarasenko tallied an impressive 40 goals and 34 assists for a total of 74 points. His ability to find the back of the net and create scoring opportunities for his teammates makes him a valuable asset for any team.
However, concerns about Tarasenko’s injury history remain. Over the past two seasons, he has undergone multiple shoulder surgeries, which have limited his playing time and effectiveness on the ice. The Senators will need to closely monitor his health and manage his workload to ensure he remains productive throughout the season.
Despite these concerns, the Senators are optimistic about Tarasenko’s potential impact on the team. General Manager Pierre Dorion believes that with proper rest and rehabilitation, Tarasenko can return to his previous form and provide a significant offensive threat for Ottawa.
The signing of Tarasenko also adds depth to the Senators’ forward group. He joins a talented young core that includes Brady Tkachuk, Drake Batherson, and Tim Stützle. The combination of Tarasenko’s experience and skill set, along with the youthful energy of the Senators’ rising stars, could create a formidable offensive lineup.
Off the ice, Tarasenko’s presence brings a wealth of experience and leadership to the Senators’ locker room. As a veteran player, he can provide guidance and mentorship to the team’s younger players, helping them develop both on and off the ice.
Overall, the signing of Vladimir Tarasenko represents a calculated gamble for the Ottawa Senators. If he can stay healthy and regain his scoring touch, he has the potential to be a game-changer for the team. However, his injury history raises concerns about his long-term durability. Only time will tell if this move pays off for the Senators, but it certainly adds an intriguing storyline to the upcoming NHL season.
