NHL Veteran Vladimir Tarasenko Has Remained Unsigned
The 34-year-old free agent is currently training in Florida while seeking a new team for the season.
Updated on Oct. 9, 2026 in Hockey
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NHL winger Vladimir Tarasenko remains an unsigned free agent as of October 2026. The veteran, who won a Stanley Cup with the Florida Panthers in 2024, has parted ways with agent Dan Milstein.
Why it matters
Tarasenko brings significant experience to the market, having recorded 327 goals over 906 career games. His current status leaves a veteran scoring option available for teams looking to bolster their rosters mid-season.
Tarasenko played 75 games for the Minnesota Wild in 2025-26, recording 23 goals and 24 assists. He has accumulated 327 goals and 382 assists over a 906-game career.
The players
Vladimir Tarasenko
He is a 34-year-old NHL winger with 906 career games of experience.
Dan Milstein
He is a sports agent who recently separated from Tarasenko.
Patrik Laine
He is an NHL player currently training in Florida with Tarasenko.
Alexander Nikishin
He is a professional hockey player training alongside Tarasenko in Florida.
Florida Panthers
The NHL franchise is a former team of Tarasenko and a potential destination for the veteran.
The details
Tarasenko is currently preparing for potential opportunities by training in Florida alongside Patrik Laine and Alexander Nikishin. He is without representation after separating from his former agent, Dan Milstein, in late summer 2026.
Timeline
2023-24 season: Tarasenko played for the Panthers and won the Stanley Cup.
2024-25 season: Tarasenko played 80 games for the Detroit Red Wings.
2025-26 season: Tarasenko played 75 games for the Minnesota Wild.
Late summer 2026: Tarasenko and Dan Milstein separated.
October 8, 2026: The current status of the free agent was confirmed.
The Big Picture
This situation follows the NHL's standard practice of teams signing veteran depth players to fill injury-related roster gaps. It underscores how experienced forwards often transition into late-signees as professional clubs identify specific personnel needs during the season.
The Florida Panthers may consider signing Tarasenko to replace injured veteran forwards as the season reaches its first quarter. His addition could provide an immediate boost to depth scoring for teams grappling with early-season injuries.
The takeaway
Free agency for veteran players often hinges on the specific personnel needs created by early-season injuries across the league. Players like Tarasenko maintain fitness while awaiting the right match for their specific skill set.
Further reading
For more updates on professional league transactions, visit the Hockey section.
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