3 Potential Free-Agent Destinations for Vladimir Tarasenko

The 2026-27 NHL season is just around the corner, as the calendar has flipped to September, and training camps are just days away. Veteran winger Vladimir Tarasenko is still sitting without a contract for next season, and don't expect that to last much longer.

The 34-year-old winger will be inking a new deal and attending an NHL training camp, as he's one of the most talented forwards left on the open market. Tarasenko is coming off a 23-goal season, posting 47 points in 75 games for the Minnesota Wild last season. Let's dive into his potential destinations for his new contract:

Montreal Canadiens

The Canadiens have quickly become a favorite, as they could see Tarasenko having a mentor-like impact on dynamic young forward Ivan Demidov. The Canadiens also have a need for a top-six winger, and while they've tried hard to acquire a second-line center all summer, adding Tarasenko and losing Patrik Laine would be a solid upgrade.

Boston Bruins

The Bruins fanbase is pushing hard for this signing, as the B's have troubles scoring goals, and Tarasenko could bring in some secondary scoring. Boston will be relying on a lot of young unproven forwards next season, so it could be wise to mix in a proven veteran, who is likely going to score 20 goals. Boston has $5.3 million in cap space, so Tarasenko would have to settle for something around $2.5 million AAV.

Seattle Kraken

The Kraken are desperate for more offense, and have lost a few of their forwards in free agency, and besides reupping Bobby McMann, haven't really done too much to upgrade heading into next season. Tarasenko could join on a one-year deal and give the Kraken the boost they need. Although on paper right now, they look like one of the weaker teams in the Western Conference, and he may want to consider signing elsewhere.