In an emotional return to St. Louis, former Blues forward Vladimir Tarasenko made a significant financial donation to the Children’s Hospital at Washington University in St. Louis. Now playing for the New York Rangers, Tarasenko’s generosity demonstrates his continued affection for the city where he spent the majority of his NHL career.
Vladimir Tarasenko, back in St. Louis for the first time since the trade to NYR, today made a sizeable $$$ donation to the Children's Hospital at Washington University in St. Louis.
— Dan Rosen (@drosennhl) April 6, 2023
The trade between the Blues and the Rangers sent Tarasenko to New York, with St. Louis receiving forward Sammy Blais, defenseman prospect Hunter Skinner, a conditional first-round pick in the 2023 NHL Draft, and a fourth-round pick in the 2024 NHL Draft. In return, the Rangers also acquired defenseman Niko Mikkola, as reported by NHL.com.
Since joining the Rangers, Tarasenko has made a solid impact on the team, tallying seven goals and ten assists for a total of 17 points in 27 games. With a playoff spot already locked up, the Rangers are preparing to improve upon last season’s Stanley Cup run, which saw them eliminated in the Eastern Conference Finals by the Tampa Bay Lightning.
With four regular-season games remaining, the Rangers’ likely first-round opponent will be the New Jersey Devils. As they gear up for another postseason push, Tarasenko’s contribution to his former city highlights the importance of community and giving back, even after moving on to a new team.
Vladimir Tarasenko’s heartfelt donation to the Children’s Hospital at Washington University in St. Louis serves as a reminder of the impact players can have both on and off the ice, demonstrating the strength of the bond between athletes and their communities.