The Edmonton Oilers may not be finished shaping their forward group, with veteran winger Vladimir Tarasenko emerging as a potential late-summer target.

According to reports from several Edmonton-based writers, along with comments from Elliotte Friedman on a recent 32 Thoughts podcast, the 34-year-old might be an intriguing option for Edmonton. Given that they made a pitch to sign Claude Giroux, it appears they're open to adding a veteran. Tarasenko remains one of the most notable unrestricted free agents still on the market.

After posting 23 goals and 47 points with the Minnesota Wild last season, it's not clear how much he has left in the tank, but on the right deal, he could be a smart, team-friendly addition. 

Tarasenko's scoring ability and playoff pedigree make him an appealing fit for a team still chasing a Stanley Cup. If his options have dried up, Edmonton has proven to be a place where players can boost their odds of signing a more financially favorable deal.

His shot and offensive instincts could pair well with elite playmakers like Connor McDavid or Leon Draisaitl, particularly on the power play. If new head coach Mike Babcock is looking to spread the offense around, Tarasenko might get an opportunity others before him -- Viktor Arvidsson, Jeff Skinner, Andrew Mangiapane -- didn't. 

There are real questions, though.

Matheson has raised concerns about whether Tarasenko's diminished footspeed fits Edmonton's desire to play quickly. It's also unclear what Tarasenko has been asking for on the open market. The Oilers want to keep some cap space available going into the season. If Tarasenko is asking for anything close to his salary from last season ($4.75 million), the Oilers will likely pass.

He'd need to take a discount for a deal to make sense.

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