During the summer of 2021, all St. Louis Blues fans held their breath as reports revealed that Vladimir Tarasenko wanted a trade. Tarasenko had just returned from shoulder injuries and was looking for a fresh start. No trade happened as the Blues couldn’t find a trade partner who wasn’t scared of Tarasenko’s shoulder history.
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Tarasenko stayed with the Blues, and what a great decision that turned out to be. Tarasenko had the best season of his career and surpassed all expectations as he led the team in goals with 34 and points with 82. Tarasenko proved he still got it after his shoulder injuries. But there’s still worry from Blues fans regarding the Russian star’s future with the team.
Next summer, Tarasenko becomes an unrestricted free agent, and if the Blues want some value for him, this off-season would be the time to cash out. But for now, everything points at the Blues keeping him, to give it another go for the Cup. But Vladimir Tarasenko himself is getting fed up and tired of the talk regarding his future.
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After tonight’s pre-season game between the Blues and Columbus Blue Jackets, Jim Thomas, Blues hockey writer for the Post-Dispatched, asked Tarasenko if he expects to be back next season.
“I don’t talk about this right now. I’m just preparing for the season. Very excited and we’ll figure it out,” Tarasenko said.
Thomas also asked if Tarasenko still wanted a trade from the Blues, and he snapped back immediately.
“For real, you asking me this on the first day? … I’m not going to answer it. This can go both ways. I’m focused on the season now and I’m excited to be here, that’s it,” Tarasenko said.