Red Wings Rumors: Detroit Could Cut Ties With Vladimir Tarasenko

Thursday, May 01, 2025
Detroit Red Wings forward Vladimir Tarasenko shoots the puck during 2025 game.

Vladimir Tarasenko arrived in Detroit with expectations of boosting the Red Wings’ offense, but one year into his two-year, $9.5 million contract, his future with the team is in question. 

The 33-year-old forward managed just 11 goals and 33 points over 80 games and never quite found a consistent rhythm in the lineup. With the team needing roster flexibility and looking to retool this offseason, Tarasenko is now being talked about as a potential buyout candidate.

Vladimir Tarasenko’s Future in Detroit Looks Uncertain

General manager Steve Yzerman hasn’t ruled out the possibility but hasn’t fully committed to it either. He acknowledged Tarasenko’s struggles, saying his frustration with production may have affected his overall play. 

Still, Yzerman believes there’s more in the tank: “I’m hopeful and expecting him to give us more than he did this year because I know he can.” That cautious optimism may buy Tarasenko some time, but it’s clear the organization needs more from a player signed to fill a top-six scoring role.

The Red Wings have over $20 million in cap space heading into the offseason and are expected to pursue another offensive piece to play alongside Dylan Larkin and Lucas Raymond. 

If Tarasenko stays, he’ll likely slot into the middle six with hopes of a rebound year. But if Detroit wants to open up another roster spot or shift money elsewhere, buying out the final year of his deal remains a real option—one that grows more plausible the longer his production remains below expectations.

Photo Credit: James Guillory-Imagn Images 

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