Tarasenko already feeling right at home with Florida, since it is home

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (AP) — Vladimir Tarasenko was born and raised in Russia, and has spent his NHL career playing in St. Louis, New York and Ottawa.

Now he's home — in Florida.

Tarasenko's wife and children have made South Florida their full-time home for the last year or so, which is one of many reasons why the veteran winger and Stanley Cup champion jumped at the chance to join the Panthers. Florida swung a trade with Ottawa on Wednesday for Tarasenko, sending two draft picks to the Senators.

“We usually spend the summers, but this year we decided they'll stay here, the kids will play hockey and get in school,” Tarasenko said. “And get some sun.”