During this past off-season, former St. Louis Blues forward Vladimir Tarasenko signed a two-year, $9.5 million contract with the Detroit Red Wings. This was after he appeared in 76 games split between the Ottawa Senators and Florida Panthers last season, posting 23 goals and 55 points in 76 games. He also won his second career Stanley Cup with Florida that spring.
With the Red Wings looking to take that next step and become a legitimate playoff team, it made sense that they brought in a forward like Tarasenko. When playing at his best, he is an impactful top-six winger, and the Red Wings needed another scorer.
However, the fit has just not been there for Tarasenko in Detroit thus far. The former Blues star has struggled this campaign, as he has 10 goals, 31 points, and a minus-17 rating in 74 games. This offense is certainly below expectations from the veteran, and it has led to him having a less significant role in Detroit's lineup because of it.
With Tarasenko's struggles, it is fair to wonder if he could be a player the Red Wings listen to offers for during the off-season. He came up in the rumor mill nearing the deadline, and he could benefit from a change of scenery.
In 644 games over 11 seasons with the Blues, Tarasenko had 262 goals, 291 assists, 553 points, and a plus-57 rating.
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