Vladimir Tarasenko gave John Hynes 23 goals last season, yet the veteran winger is still waiting for another NHL contract.
More than a month into free agency, Tarasenko remains unsigned despite restoring some of his offensive value during his season with Minnesota.
The 34-year-old finished with 23 goals and 47 points in 75 games. That was a clear bounce-back after his final season in Detroit produced only 11 goals and 33 points.
His previous contract carried a $4,750,000 annual cap hit. Detroit eventually moved him to Minnesota for future considerations, showing how difficult that number had become for the Red Wings to carry.
Tarasenko responded with more offense in Minnesota, then added 5 points across 11 playoff games. The production gave him a stronger case entering the open market.
It still hasn't created the bidding war he might have expected. Edmonton and Ottawa have been floated as potential destinations, while a return to Minnesota remains possible, but no deal has followed.
Vladimir Tarasenko faces concerning reality as NHL teams show little interest
That silence points toward the real issue. Teams can still value Tarasenko's shot and scoring touch without valuing him like the top-six star he was during his best years in St. Louis.
Minnesota also kept his workload under 15 minutes per game. That usage fits a veteran scorer who can complement a line, rather than one expected to drive the offense every night.
A contender could still see value there. Put Tarasenko beside the right center, give him offensive-zone opportunities and second-unit power-play work, and the 20-goal range doesn't look unreasonable after last season.
The contract is where things get uncomfortable. If Tarasenko entered July looking for something close to his previous $4,750,000 salary or multiple guaranteed seasons, the market hasn't rewarded that position.
Age matters too. At 34, clubs aren't paying for his St. Louis résumé or the player who once carried a top-line workload. They're measuring what he can deliver right now.
That leaves Tarasenko with less leverage as training camp approaches. An injury elsewhere could open a roster spot quickly, but waiting also increases the chance that the available money and roles keep shrinking.
Tarasenko showed last season that his scoring hasn't disappeared. The message from NHL teams is still clear: they may want those goals, but apparently not at the price attached to his previous contract.
Source : Lack of market for Vladimir Tarasenko exposes harsh NHL reality
Should Vladimir Tarasenko accept a major pay cut to join a contender?
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