Vladimir Tarasenko is a Russian professional ice hockey player who serves as a right winger in the National Hockey League (NHL).
Born on December 13, 1991, in Yaroslavl, Russia, he has built a reputation as a skilled scorer with strong skating ability and a powerful shot.
Tarasenko has played for several NHL teams, most notably spending over a decade with the St. Louis Blues, where he became one of the franchise’s all-time leading scorers.
He currently plays for the Minnesota Wild and has represented Russia in international competitions.
Siblings
Vladimir comes from a hockey-centric family and has one younger brother named Valentin Tarasenko.
Valentin, born in 2000, has followed a similar path into professional hockey, though at a lower level than his older brother.
He has played in various leagues, including stints in Russia and Kazakhstan, most recently appearing with Arlan Kokshetau.
Their father, Andrei Tarasenko, was a prominent figure in Russian hockey as both a player and coach, influencing both sons’ development in the sport before his passing in 2024 at the age of 55.
Career
Tarasenko’s professional journey began in Russia with Sibir Novosibirsk of the KHL, where he made his debut during the league’s inaugural 2008–09 season.
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As a teenager, he impressed with seven goals and ten points in 38 games, earning consideration as a top rookie.
He later moved to SKA Saint Petersburg before pursuing NHL opportunities.
Selected 16th overall by the St. Louis Blues in the 2010 NHL Entry Draft, Tarasenko joined the team for the 2012–13 season after signing an entry-level contract.
He made an immediate impact in his NHL debut, scoring two goals in his first game against the Detroit Red Wings.
Over his time in St. Louis, Tarasenko developed into a cornerstone player, known for his scoring prowess and leadership.
He recorded multiple 30-plus goal seasons and helped elevate the Blues’ offense.
In 2019, he played a key role in the team’s historic run to the Stanley Cup Final, contributing during the playoffs as St. Louis defeated the Boston Bruins to claim its first championship in franchise history.
Injuries, including a significant shoulder issue, later strained his relationship with the organization, leading to a trade in February 2023 to the New York Rangers.
Following the trade, Tarasenko experienced a nomadic phase, playing for the Rangers, Ottawa Senators, Florida Panthers, and Detroit Red Wings.
With the Panthers in 2024, he added a second Stanley Cup to his resume, appearing in the playoffs during their championship victory.
He has since joined the Minnesota Wild, where he continues to contribute as a veteran scorer.
Accolades
Tarasenko is a two-time Stanley Cup champion, winning with the St. Louis Blues in 2019 and the Florida Panthers in 2024.
He has been named to the NHL All-Star Game four times, in 2015, 2016, 2017, and 2023, showcasing his consistent recognition among the league’s top players.
Additionally, he earned spots on the NHL Second All-Star Team in both 2015 and 2016.
On the international stage, Tarasenko helped Russia secure a silver medal at the IIHF World Championship in 2015.
He reached significant career milestones in the NHL, including 500 points with the Blues and becoming one of only a handful of Russian-born wingers to hit 700 career points.
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