The Waiting Game

Vladimir Tarasenko is on the rise – but collectors are still sitting on redemption cards.

- Stephen Laroche

There is no doubt about the fact that Vladimir Tarasenko can score goals, but collectors are perplexed by his reluctance to put his autograph on cards that he is contractually obligated to sign. When a player comes into the NHL, they or their agents acting on their behalf often agree to a deal with a trading card licensee for a large amount of signatures at an unspecified rate.

In Tarasenko’s case, deals were made with both Panini America and Upper Deck and his first cards in a St. Louis Blues uniform came during his sophomore season due to the dual rookie class that was instituted for 2013-14 due to the previous year’s labor disruption.

While Tarasenko has signed a portion of his autographs for both manufacturers, there are still some outstanding cards that the hobby is anxiously awaiting – including his 2013-14 SP Authentic Future Watch autograph. When recently told by Beckett Hockey that fans were waiting for these cards, he gave a short, but somewhat positive, response.

“Maybe, it was some time ago, too. I’ll try to figure out now with my agent what’s going on.”

For a star player like Tarasenko, the demand for his autograph is rather substantial. He understands his role as a professional player to provide fans with one when asked, but also acknowledged that the requests from those looking to make a profit or interrupting his private time can be a bother.