Wild Coach John Hynes on Vladimir Tarasenko: A Scorer Looking to Revitalize His Game
Minnesota Wild coach John Hynes has been working to get the most out of veteran forward Vladimir Tarasenko, who has been a less consistent contributor this season. While Tarasenko's numbers are modest so far - two goals and eight assists in 21 games - Hynes sees something positive in his game.
Tarasenko, 33, is coming off an injury that kept him out of the lineup for seven games. Prior to returning, he had gone three games without a point, sparking concerns about his recent form. However, Hynes disagrees with those assessments, praising Tarasenko's overall play and "details" on the ice.
The coach pointed to Tarasenko's ability to make smart decisions, compete hard, and set up well for his teammates as key strengths. Hynes also likes how Tarasenko interacts with other players, such as Nico Sturm and Yakov Trenin, on the same line.
Tarasenko's shooting was a major part of his game when he played for the St. Louis Blues, particularly against the Wild. However, Hynes acknowledges that seeing more shots from Tarasenko would be a welcome addition to his overall contributions.
Despite some concerns about Tarasenko's production this season, Hynes believes the veteran is "progressing" and has the skills to contribute in other ways beyond just scoring. By recognizing these strengths and encouraging Tarasenko to use his shot more effectively, Wild fans may see a resurgence from their new forward as the season wears on.
The Wild acquired Tarasenko in a trade with the Detroit Red Wings over the summer, with Hynes making an effort to make the veteran feel welcome in Minnesota. As Hynes continues to work with Tarasenko, one thing is clear: the coach wants to see more of what made him a valuable contributor for two Stanley Cup-winning teams.
Minnesota Wild coach John Hynes has been working to get the most out of veteran forward Vladimir Tarasenko, who has been a less consistent contributor this season. While Tarasenko's numbers are modest so far - two goals and eight assists in 21 games - Hynes sees something positive in his game.
Tarasenko, 33, is coming off an injury that kept him out of the lineup for seven games. Prior to returning, he had gone three games without a point, sparking concerns about his recent form. However, Hynes disagrees with those assessments, praising Tarasenko's overall play and "details" on the ice.
The coach pointed to Tarasenko's ability to make smart decisions, compete hard, and set up well for his teammates as key strengths. Hynes also likes how Tarasenko interacts with other players, such as Nico Sturm and Yakov Trenin, on the same line.
Tarasenko's shooting was a major part of his game when he played for the St. Louis Blues, particularly against the Wild. However, Hynes acknowledges that seeing more shots from Tarasenko would be a welcome addition to his overall contributions.
Despite some concerns about Tarasenko's production this season, Hynes believes the veteran is "progressing" and has the skills to contribute in other ways beyond just scoring. By recognizing these strengths and encouraging Tarasenko to use his shot more effectively, Wild fans may see a resurgence from their new forward as the season wears on.
The Wild acquired Tarasenko in a trade with the Detroit Red Wings over the summer, with Hynes making an effort to make the veteran feel welcome in Minnesota. As Hynes continues to work with Tarasenko, one thing is clear: the coach wants to see more of what made him a valuable contributor for two Stanley Cup-winning teams.