A 32-year-old forward recently signed a two-year free-agent contract with the Red Wings following his contribution to the Panthers’ 2024 Stanley Cup victory.
Vladimir Tarasenko officially joined the Detroit Red Wings by signing a two-year contract on July 3. The 32-year-old forward, who spent his first 11 NHL seasons with the St. Louis Blues, already has some familiarity with his new teammates in Detroit. He played alongside goalie Ville Husso from 2020 to 2022 and shared the ice with Tyler Motte and Patrick Kane while with the New York Rangers during the 2022-23 season.
When considering his options in free agency, Tarasenko consulted Kane to gather more information about Detroit. In a Zoom call with the media on July 8, Tarasenko expressed his enthusiasm for joining the team, citing the team’s style of play from the previous season and his family’s decision to move forward with Detroit as the best choice.
Last season, Tarasenko split his time between the Ottawa Senators and Florida Panthers, tallying 55 points (23 goals, 32 assists) in 76 regular-season games and contributing nine points (five goals, four assists) in 24 postseason games with Florida, helping them win their first Stanley Cup.
Originally drafted by St. Louis in 2010, Tarasenko has amassed 629 points (293 goals, 336 assists) in 751 games with the Blues, Rangers, Senators, and Panthers. He is seen as a positive addition to the Red Wings by Kane, who praised Tarasenko’s work ethic and winning pedigree.
Coming to Hockeytown. 🍿 pic.twitter.com/vEJbuzVdGx
— Detroit Red Wings (@DetroitRedWings) July 6, 2024
Red Wings’ Executive Vice President and General Manager Steve Yzerman noted Tarasenko’s potential to enhance the team’s offense, describing him as a different type of winger compared to Lucas Raymond, Patrick Kane, and Alex DeBrincat. Tarasenko, a natural right wing, expressed readiness to adapt to any role assigned by Detroit’s coaching staff, including playing on the left side.
While known primarily for his offensive prowess, Tarasenko emphasized his growing appreciation for defensive responsibilities over his lengthy NHL career. He acknowledged his upbringing in Yaroslavl, Russia, and his lifelong admiration for the Red Wings, mentioning his excitement for his family to embark on their new journey in Detroit, highlighting the city’s renowned youth hockey programs and expressing gratitude for the organization’s trust in him.
