The Minnesota Wild could be the hottest team within the NHL right now. Minnesota has won nine of its last 10 games. And the Wild have put themselves able to potentially be a contender within the Western Conference when the stretch run begins. On Saturday, Minnesota strengthened its roster with the return of veteran Vladimir Tarasenko.
Tarasenko was activated from injured reserve, the Wild announced on social media. He’s poised to skate on Saturday night when his team takes on the Buffalo Sabres at Grand Casino Arena in Saint Paul, Minnesota. In a corresponding move, Minnesota sent forward Hunter Haight to the AHL’s Iowa Wild.
The Wild are hoping to bring Tarasenko back to his former self. He joined Minnesota through a trade with the Detroit Red Wings this summer. Detroit essentially traded the veteran winger for nothing right before NHL Free Agency began on July 1. He has not skated for Minnesota since November eleventh.
Tarasenko joined the Red Wings hoping to help a young team of their push for the playoffs. But Detroit took a giant step back, and Tarasenko was largely a non-factor. He played 80 games for the Winged Wheel, scoring 11 goals and 33 points. He finished with the bottom full-season shooting percentage of his profession.
This being said, the veteran winger has lots to supply. He shouldn’t be far faraway from a 55-point season split between the Ottawa Senators and Florida Panthers. This performance saw him win his second profession Stanley Cup, as well.
Thus far, Tarasenko has two goals and 10 points in 18 games with Minnesota. The goal scoring is something this team desires to unlock. But up to now, he’s provided some production. Hopefully, he hits the ice with no complications and may help Minnesota extend its seven-game winning streak.