Jan 21, 2013; Nashville, TN, USA; St. Louis Blues right wing Vladimir Tarasenko (91) scores a goal while being defended by Nashville Predators defenseman Scott Hannan (22) during the first period at Bridgestone Arena. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports

Vladimir Tarasenko has been named the NHL Rookie of the Month.  Don’t call him the Tank, but you can call him just about anything else, Tarasenko led all rookies in January with 5 goals and 4 assists in just 7 games.

Tarasenko is the first rookie in St. Louis Blues history to score 5 points in his first two games played with the team and is hoping to continue his successful play.  Coming over this season from the KHL, many were cautious to say how well Tarasenko would do in the NHL.   Some thought he would need time to adjust to the size of the ice and style of play, but Tarasenko’s skill and speed have set him apart in the best hockey league in the world.

This is just the start for the Russian native.  Having been drafted 16^th overall in 2010, Tarasenko is a name that Blues fans will be talking about for a long time, but the NHL is just starting to learn.

Congratulations Vladdy!  LET’S GO BLUES!

-Alex Hodschayan