The St. Louis Blues are facing a critical decision regarding Vladimir Tarasenko, the dynamic forward who has spent the last decade donning the iconic Blue Note. As the NHL salary cap tightens, the team is reportedly considering buying out Tarasenko’s lucrative contract, potentially ending his storied tenure with the franchise.
Tarasenko, 32, has been an integral part of the Blues’ success since his arrival in 2010. The Russian winger has scored 30-plus goals five times, including a career-high 40 in the 2015-16 season. His impressive résumé includes a Stanley Cup championship in 2019, where he played a pivotal role in the Blues’ historic run.
However, Tarasenko’s contract, which carries a $7.75 million annual cap hit through 2025, has become a significant burden for the Blues. The team’s salary cap situation has grown increasingly precarious, with key players like Jordan Kyrou, Robert Thomas, and Colton Parayko requiring new deals in the near future.
Buying out Tarasenko’s contract would provide the Blues with much-needed cap relief. According to CapFriendly, a buyout would save the team approximately $4.58 million in cap space for the 2024-25 season. However, this move would also come with significant consequences.
A buyout would result in Tarasenko becoming an unrestricted free agent, allowing him to sign with any team. The Blues would also be required to pay Tarasenko two-thirds of his remaining salary, spread over twice the remaining length of his contract. This would equate to approximately $10.33 million over the next eight years.
Losing Tarasenko would significantly impact the Blues’ offense. His departure would create a void on the top line and reduce the team’s scoring depth. General manager Doug Armstrong would need to explore alternative options via free agency or trades to replace Tarasenko’s production.
The buyout would also have long-term implications for the Blues’ roster construction. The team would need to carefully manage their cap space to accommodate future contracts for key players. Armstrong’s decision would set a precedent for how the team approaches contract negotiations and roster management.
Tarasenko has remained silent on the possibility of a buyout, but sources close to the player indicate he is open to exploring other options if the Blues decide to move on. The veteran forward has expressed his desire to remain in St. Louis, but also wants to compete for another Stanley Cup.
While a buyout seems likely, the Blues could explore alternative solutions to alleviate cap pressure. Armstrong could attempt to trade Tarasenko, although finding a suitable trade partner willing to absorb his contract would be challenging.
Another option would be to negotiate a contract extension with Tarasenko at a lower cap hit. However, this would require the forward to take a significant pay cut, which might be unpalatable.
The St. Louis Blues’ decision regarding Vladimir Tarasenko’s contract will have far-reaching consequences for the franchise. As the NHL salary cap continues to tighten, teams must make difficult choices to remain competitive. While buying out Tarasenko’s contract would provide short-term cap relief, it would also mean the end of an era in St. Louis.
The Blues’ faithful will anxiously await Armstrong’s decision, hoping to retain the dynamic forward who has brought so much excitement and success to the franchise. Ultimately, the outcome will shape the team’s future and potentially alter the course of Tarasenko’s illustrious career.
Leave a Reply