Four teams that could land Tarasenko this summer

Vladimir Tarasenko remains unsigned 20 days after free agency opened despite posting 23 goals and 47 points last season with the Minnesota Wild.

Buffalo Sabres need secondary scoring

The Sabres lost Alex Tuch to free agency and have not replaced his production from outside the organization. Tarasenko’s power-play finishing and 5-on-5 playmaking would offset some of the points lost with Tuch’s departure.

Buffalo’s forward group lacks proven finishers beyond their top line. Adding the 34-year-old Russian would supply a veteran shooter who can operate on the second unit.

If the Sabres miss on Patrick Kane, Tarasenko becomes a logical fallback who fits their timeline of pushing for playoffs.

His recent switch to agent Dan Milstein opens doors to multiple suitors including Buffalo.

Edmonton Oilers linked repeatedly

The Oilers have made no major forward additions this summer and still lack reliable middle-six scoring. Tarasenko could pair with Leon Draisaitl to create a second line capable of 40-plus combined goals.

Edmonton requires cheap depth options that Tarasenko can provide at a one- or two-year deal. His ability to shoot and pass would complement existing European talent already on the roster.

Without such an addition, the Oilers risk repeating last season’s reliance on their top line during the playoffs.

Tampa Bay Lightning seek playoff depth

The Lightning lost Nick Paul and Oliver Bjorkstrand, leaving their bottom-six scoring depleted. Tarasenko would strengthen the second power-play unit that currently lacks specialists.

In a stacked Atlantic Division, extra secondary production becomes essential when top players go cold in the postseason. The 34-year-old’s experience from two Stanley Cup runs adds intangible value.

Tampa signed Ilya Mikheyev and Jeffrey Viel for different roles, leaving room for a pure scorer like Tarasenko.

Utah Mammoth already built for contention

The Mammoth secured the first wild-card spot in the Western Conference and pushed Vegas in the first round. They added Vincent Trocheck, Anders Lee, and prospects such as Tij Iginla without immediate need for Tarasenko.

Still, a veteran of his caliber would raise the team’s offensive ceiling as insurance against injuries. Utah’s prospect pipeline already supplies young talent, making Tarasenko a low-risk upgrade.

His presence would not be as critical here as with the other three clubs, yet it could accelerate their timeline toward deeper playoff runs.

Unless Tarasenko signs with the Oilers before mid-July, Edmonton’s middle-six scoring gap from last season will persist into October.