OTTAWA, August 1, 2023 – In a move that’s set to shake up the NHL landscape, the Ottawa Senators have inked a deal with Russian forward Vladimir Tarasenko, securing his talents for a one-year contract worth an impressive five million dollars. With the arrival of this six-time 30-goal scorer, the Senators are brimming with anticipation, wondering if Tarasenko will be the key to unlocking their playoff dreams or simply a temporary addition to their roster.
Replacing DeBrincat
Replacing the talented Alex DeBrincat, Tarasenko’s acquisition brings a wealth of experience and accolades to the Senators’ lineup. Having played a pivotal role in the St. Louis Blues’ Stanley Cup triumph in 2019, the 31-year-old winger arrives in Ottawa as a seasoned veteran, ready to make his mark on a new team.
During his illustrious tenure with the Blues, Tarasenko proved his mettle as an elite forward, boasting impressive stats and game-changing performances. The Senators are banking on him bringing that same magic to their roster. However, some skeptics question whether age may have taken a toll on Tarasenko’s skills, and if the young and enthusiastic Senators can revitalize his game.
A former 40-goal scorer, Tarasenko packs a scoring punch for this Senators group. Tarasenko should fit right in with this top-six forward core, immediately filling the void left by the Alex DeBrincat trade.
The 11-year veteran has seen it all in his career scoring 270 goals while adding 304 helpers for 574 total points across 675 career games. He also adds a championship pedigree to the core having won the Stanley Cup in 2019 with the St. Louis Blues. For a team that was just six points shy of making the playoffs last season, that experience is truly invaluable.
The Beer League
While I may be a devout Leafs fan, I must admit that Tarasenko’s elite skills are undeniable. Yet, there’s no denying that he has lost some of his previous vigour and might not be as eager to embrace the rougher aspects of the game. Perhaps a more leisurely beer league with fellow Leafs Nylander and Marner would be more his speed.
Tarasenko joins promising young guns
Despite his undeniable talents, one cannot overlook Tarasenko’s defensive game, which has often seen him finish with a negative plus-minus rating. Nevertheless, in Ottawa, Tarasenko will join a promising cohort of young stars like Brady Tkachuk, Tim Stutzle, Drake Batherson, and Shane Pinto, all of whom embody the Senators’ future aspirations.
Pierre Dorion
General Manager Pierre Dorion is ecstatic about the new addition, highlighting Tarasenko’s natural goal-scoring ability and dynamic playmaking skills. His prowess in driving offensive plays is set to elevate the Senators’ gameplay to new heights, making him a perfect fit for the team’s lineup.
“Vladimir’s a natural goal scorer,” said Senators general manager Pierre Dorion. “He’s a dynamic player who can score from anywhere in the offensive zone, as well as an underrated playmaker who’s made a career out of driving offence for he and his linemates. An established performer in the regular season and in the playoffs, we’re thrilled to add a player of his calibre to our lineup.”
From Russia with Love
A native of Yaroslavl, Russia, Tarasenko, 31, has appeared in 675 NHL games with the Blues and Rangers over which he has posted 574 points (270 goals, 304 assists) and 185 penalty minutes while having twice been named to the NHL’s second all-star team. A six-time 30-goal scorer, he has also registered 64 points (44 goals, 20 assists) over 97 post-season contests. His 262 goals and 553 points over 644 regular-season games with St. Louis see him rank fifth respectively among all-time Blues.
Internationally, Tarasenko has represented Russia on several occasions and won a gold medal while serving as his country’s captain at the 2011 IIHF World Junior Championship in Buffalo, N.Y.
All Eyes Are On The Sens
With the stage set for an electrifying season, all eyes are on the Senators and their newest sensation, Vladimir Tarasenko, as they embark on their quest for greatness. Will he be the catalyst for a memorable playoff run, or will his time in Ottawa be but a brief chapter in his storied career? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the Senators have bolstered their roster with a player of remarkable calibre, ready to leave a lasting impact on the nation’s capital.
by Myles Shane
with notes from Ottawa Senators
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