Vladimir Tarasenko gives Mike Babcock an intriguing late-summer option as KHL interest grows without pointing to an NHL exit.
Artur Khairullin reports that Ak Bars is showing interest in Tarasenko, but he rates the forward's chances of returning to Russia as slim.
That distinction matters. A KHL opportunity exists, yet the current read still points toward Tarasenko waiting for an NHL job rather than immediately heading overseas.
Edmonton was connected to Tarasenko earlier this summer, although there is no indication that active negotiations with the Oilers are taking place now.
That still makes Stan Bowman's roster worth watching. He has previously indicated that forward would be the likely position if Edmonton decides to make another addition.
Tarasenko remains attractive because the offense hasn't disappeared. He produced 23 goals and 47 points with Minnesota last season.
For a contender looking for another experienced scoring option, that production gives teams a reason to keep his number nearby as training camp approaches.
" Artur Khairullin: Re Vladimir Tarasenko: [KHL team] Ak Bars is showing interest in him, but I'd rate his chances of returning to Russia as slim (*translated from Russian) - Sports-Express (8/6)
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NHLRR: Tarasenko was linked to Edmonton earlier in the summer, but it's unclear which teams still have interest "
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Vladimir Tarasenko's KHL interest could put major pressure on the Oilers
Babcock wouldn't need Tarasenko to carry a line. Edmonton could use him deeper in the top nine and lean on his shot around more creative forwards.
The obvious temptation would be finding selective minutes alongside Connor McDavid or Leon Draisaitl, where Tarasenko wouldn't have to manufacture every offensive chance himself.
The bigger issue is price. Bowman has emphasized maintaining flexibility, and signing another veteran only makes sense if the contract leaves Edmonton enough room to react later.
That is where the Ak Bars interest becomes interesting. Tarasenko has another option available, but Khairullin's assessment suggests the NHL remains the more likely path.
Tarasenko can also afford to wait. Injuries, disappointing camps and late roster moves routinely create opportunities that simply aren't available in mid-August.
Edmonton doesn't need to force anything either. If Tarasenko's asking price stays above Bowman's comfort zone, keeping the cap space may be more valuable than adding another winger now.
But if the market softens, the fit becomes harder to ignore. Tarasenko still brings finishing ability, Edmonton has been open to another forward, and the KHL option doesn't sound like his preferred ending yet.
Should Edmonton sign Vladimir Tarasenko if his price drops before training camp?
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