The Minnesota Wild made a strategic move on Monday, acquiring veteran forward Vladimir Tarasenko from the Detroit Red Wings. The trade involved future considerations, signaling the Wild's intent to bolster their roster with experienced talent.
At 33 years old, Tarasenko brings a wealth of experience, having been named an All-Star four times, with his most recent selection occurring during the 2022-2023 season. This marks a pivotal moment for Tarasenko, who joins the Wild as his sixth team in just four seasons. The franchise is optimistic about his potential resurgence after a challenging season in Detroit, where he recorded only 11 goals and 22 assists—his lowest point total in any season where he played more than half the games. Notably, he hasn't surpassed 30 goals in a season since the 2021-2022 campaign.
"He's a player that is in need of a fresh start," said general manager Bill Guerin, emphasizing the fit between Tarasenko and the Wild. "The contract and the money and everything just kind of fits, I think. We're a place that Vladdy can come and hopefully get back to the form that he's had in past years ... I just think there's a lot we can do to help him."
This trade also allows the Red Wings to create cap space for re-signing Patrick Kane. Tarasenko's contract includes one year remaining with a salary cap hit of $4.75 million.
In addition to roster changes, the Wild's home arena will be rebranded as the Grand Casino Arena starting this season, following the expiration of Xcel Energy's naming rights.
