The New York Rangers boss Chris Drury acquired star winger Vladimir Tarasenko from the St. Louis Blues on Thursday.
Tarasenko signed an eight-year contract in the summer of 2015, earning him a total of $60 million, or $7.5 million per season at the Blues.
“He’s a star scorer, an incredible player. We needed to add a top-six winger, it’s something we’ve been looking for for a long time, and we’re excited to welcome him to our home.” Druri said.
Rangers on the other hand, they also have signed defender Niko Mikkola during trade activity.
“It’s something I was also looking for, it’s good to have found it now. He is a very good defensive defender. He’s got the size and reach just like K’Andre Miller,” Drury said
Mikkola’s debut at the Rangers defense line explains why the team decided to place Libor Hajek’s name on free agents earlier in the day.
Rangers also agreed to trade forward Samuel Blais, who will return to St Louis, as well as a conditional 2023 first-round pick.
The second-lower pick that New York currently has is a fourth-round conditional pick for 2024. But itcould become a third-round pick if the Rangers make the playoffs.
Tarasenko has spent his entire career with the Blues, amassing 553 points, including 262 goals, in 644 games. This season, he has 10 goals and 29 points in 38 games.
“Vladi was drafted here. He grew up with us, helped us become a champion team and I thank him for that,” Blues general manager Doug Armstrong said.
“I wish him only the best as he and his family begin a new chapter in their life in New York.” Amstrong added.
Meanwhile Mikkola, averaged 16:39 on the blue line for the Blues this season in 50 games.
