Does Vladimir Tarasenko Improve the Senators’ Playoff Odds?

Reports came out on Thursday that the Ottawa Senators have found a replacement of sorts for the loss of Alex DeBrincat. The club has signed Russian forward Vladimir Tarasenko to a one-season contract worth $5 million.

Vladimir Taraseko Signs with Ottawa Senators

Ottawa fulfills a desire it had for some time. Ever since the offseason got underway and it became clear DeBrincat wasn’t staying in town, Tarasenko’s name was mentioned as a potential target.

The team now has its man, who spent the 2022-2023 campaign with the St. Louis Blues and the New York Rangers. He helped the Blue win the Stanley Cup in 2019.

Still only 31 years old, Tarasenko can help give the Sens the offensive spark they’ll need to remain competitive and push for playoff participation next season. His postseason and championship experience alone will be invaluable.

Tarasenko has scored at least 30 goals six times in his 12-year career, with his best season being in 2015-2016 when he netted 40 times. Together with veteran Claude Giroux and Brady Tkachuk, and Tim Stützle, the offence is in good hands.