Detroit City Wire

DETROIT -- Vladimir Tarasenko officially joined the Detroit Red Wings by signing a two-year free-agent contract on July 3. The 32-year-old forward arrives already familiar with several teammates.

Tarasenko, who spent his first 11 NHL seasons with the St. Louis Blues, played alongside goalie Ville Husso from 2020-22 and was teammates with Tyler Motte and Patrick Kane on the New York Rangers in 2022-23.

Considering his free-agency options, Tarasenko reached out to Kane for insights about Detroit.

“I liked the way the team played last year,” Tarasenko said in an introductory Zoom call with the media on July 8. “I decided with the family this is the best decision for us moving forward. We are really excited about it. It’s a new chapter for us. We can’t wait to get to Detroit, get settled and start Training Camp.”

Last season, Tarasenko split time between the Ottawa Senators and Florida Panthers, recording 55 points (23 goals, 32 assists) in 76 regular-season games. He also earned nine points (five goals, four assists) in 24 postseason games with Florida, contributing to their first-ever Stanley Cup championship.

Originally selected by St. Louis as the 16th overall pick in the 2010 NHL Draft, Tarasenko has amassed 629 points (293 goals, 336 assists) in 751 games across stints with the Blues, Rangers, Senators, and Panthers.

"I think he is going to be so good for the group,” Kane said of Tarasenko. “He’s a proven winner. The way he plays, how hard he plays - I think a lot of players in general, not just young guys, will see how hard he works and how much effort he gives every shift. That’s why he has a couple Stanley Cups to his name too.”

Red Wings Executive Vice President and General Manager Steve Yzerman expressed confidence that Tarasenko will enhance Detroit’s offense.

“A little bit different type of player than our wingers Lucas (Raymond), Patrick Kane and Alex DeBrincat,” Yzerman said about Tarasenko on July 4. “A left-shot who will fill out that top-six, top-nine group. A scorer and straight-ahead guy who is big, strong and will go to the net. We feel that’s a really good addition.”

Although primarily a right wing player, Tarasenko indicated his readiness to adapt as needed.

“I played left last season for the first time in my life,” Tarasenko said. “I’ve always played only right. It took a little bit of time to understand the systems... If you know what you’re doing on the ice, I don’t think there is a difference on what wing you play.”

While known for his offensive capabilities, Tarasenko noted his increased focus on defense throughout his career.

"I still like to score goals," Tarasenko said. “Not only team but I have some personal goals too... As the years have gone by... I just realized you have to do this for your team to win the championship.”

Born and raised in Yaroslavl, Russia, Tarasenko expressed admiration for Detroit's hockey legacy.

“Detroit is one of the most famous if not the most famous team in the world when you talk about hockey history,” he said. “Growing up in Russia... On my first PlayStation, I played with Detroit with my friends.”

Now set to begin this new chapter with his family in Detroit:

“My kids play hockey too,” Tarasenko added. “I know Detroit has some of the best youth hockey programs in the States... We are obviously very happy about the trust from the organization to give us a deal."