Hawks-Blues Matchup Spotlight: Vladimir Tarasenko

St. Louis Blues right winger Vladimir Tarasenko did damage against nearly every NHL team this season, but he especially did so against the Chicago Blackhawks.

Tarasenko scored five goals and had seven points in five games against the Blackhawks this season. It was the most goals Tarasenko scored against one opponent and was tied for the most points.

If the Blackhawks are going to contain the Blues in the first round of the Stanley Cup playoffs, they likely have to contain Tarasenko. That, of course, is easier said than done.

One of the main challenges with Tarasenko is to combat his physical force. With his strength and 6-foot, 219-pound frame, he’s difficult to slow down once he gets going.…