Vladimir Tarasenko Has Remained a Free Agent
The veteran forward is currently training in Florida while weighing his next move in the National Hockey League.
Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in Hockey
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Vladimir Tarasenko has remained an unrestricted free agent following the conclusion of his previous two-year, $9.5 million contract. The veteran forward recorded 47 points over 75 games during the 2025-26 season.
Why it matters
Tarasenko continues to seek a landing spot after testing the open market, with teams evaluating his production levels from the most recent campaign. He is currently training in Florida as he explores potential opportunities for the upcoming season.
Tarasenko finished the 2025-26 season with 23 goals and 24 assists across 75 games. His previous contract, which recently expired, carried a total value of $9.5 million over two years.
The players
Vladimir Tarasenko
He is an veteran NHL forward who has played for multiple franchises including the Ottawa Senators and Minnesota Wild.
Florida Panthers
They are a professional NHL team that currently employs the training facility where Tarasenko is preparing for the season.
Minnesota Wild
They are a professional NHL organization that previously employed Tarasenko before his trade to the Florida Panthers.
Ottawa Senators
They are a professional NHL team that was involved in the 2024 trade that sent Tarasenko to the Florida Panthers.
The details
Tarasenko previously suited up for the Minnesota Wild before being traded to the Florida Panthers by the Ottawa Senators on March 6, 2024. Despite expressing a desire in May 2026 to potentially return to Minnesota, the forward has spent his offseason training in Florida.
Timeline
March 6, 2024: The Florida Panthers acquired Tarasenko via trade from the Ottawa Senators.
May 2026: Tarasenko expressed an interest in returning to the Minnesota Wild.
End of 2025-26 season: Tarasenko’s two-year contract officially expired.
Season Trajectory
Tarasenko's status remains a key variable for teams looking to bolster their depth charts late in the offseason. His eventual signing will impact the competitive balance for whichever franchise secures his veteran presence.
Tarasenko's upcoming contract will likely factor into salary cap considerations for any acquiring team. Fantasy hockey managers should monitor his eventual signing to assess his potential point production for the new season.
The takeaway
Free agency serves as a critical period for veteran players to find the right organizational fit for their remaining career production. Fans should monitor roster updates to see how late-summer signings impact team depth charts before the season begins.
Further reading
For more updates on player movement, visit the Hockey section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Sportskeeda.
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