It has been over a month since NHL free agency started. Although this is the case, forward Vladimir Tarasenko remains a UFA at this stage.
When noting that Tarasenko is a two-time Stanley Cup champion who posted 23 goals and 47 points in 75 games last season with the Minnesota Wild, he should be able to find a new home before the start of the season.
Due to this, let’s look at five potential free agent destinations for the 34-year-old winger.
Montreal Canadiens
When looking at the Canadiens’ roster, it is fair to argue that they could use another skilled winger in their middle six. If they signed Tarasenko, he could slot very nicely on their second line with Ivan Demidov and Alex Newhook.
With the Canadiens entering their Stanley Cup window, it would make a lot of sense for them to bring in a veteran who has won it multiple times like Tarasenko. He would also be a good mentor for the Habs’ younger players to have around.
Boston Bruins
After losing Viktor Arvidsson in free agency this offseason to the Detroit Red Wings, the Bruins could use another top-six winger. With that, Tarasenko would make a lot of sense for Boston to bring in on a one-year deal.
Tarasenko would be a bit of an upgrade over Casey Mittelstadt on the Bruins’ second line with Elias Lindholm and Morgan Geekie if signed.
Buffalo Sabres
After moving on from Alex Tuch this offseason and missing out on Patrick Kane in free agency, it would not be surprising if the Sabres tried to land Tarasenko. They could use another skilled winger in their top nine and signing Tarasenko would give them just that.
Tarasenko could work well on the Sabres’ third line with Jack Quinn and Konsta Helenius if signed. He would also offer them another valuable weapon for their power play.
Edmonton Oilers
The Oilers have made multiple additions this offseason, but they could still use another skilled winger to solidify their middle six. They have been viewed as a fit for Tarasenko often this offseason, so it would make sense if they pursued him.
Tarasenko could perform very well on a line with Connor McDavid due to his scoring ability. On a short-term deal, Tarasenko and the Oilers could be a great match.
Chicago Blackhawks
Could the Blackhawks have another move in them before the start of the season? They have made it clear that they want to be better in 2026-27, as they brought in Kane, Bowen Byram, Ian Cole, Cole Smith, and Jordan Greenway. With that, it could make sense for them to sign a forward like Tarasenko to strengthen their forward group.
If the Blackhawks signed Tarasenko, he would have the potential to fit very nicely in their top six and on their power play. He would also give them another impactful veteran forward who could help mentor their younger players. Because of this, the Blackhawks could be a team to watch very closely when it comes to Tarasenko.
NHL Rumors: 5 Free Agent Destinations for Vladimir Tarasenko