WATCH : Vladimir Tarasenko scores in his first game as a New York Ranger

Vladimir Tarasenko was traded to the New York Rangers on February 9, marking the second major trade before the March 3 deadline (after Bo Horvat's trade to the New York Islanders).

Tarasenko played his first match for the Rangers against the Seattle Kraken at Madison Square Garden. The fans gave Tarasenko a warm welcome before the game and we were excited to see the 31-year-old in Ranger threads.

Vladimir Tarasenko electrified the home fans in just the second minute of the game when he squared the puck into the goal from an Artemi Panerin pass. It was Tarasenko's first shot as a Ranger, and he turned it into his first goal.

The crowd was ecstatic, watching their most recent addition make an immediate impact. Given Tarasenko's caliber, the crowd was bound to see his magic on the ice sooner rather than later.

The game ended with the Rangers winning 6-3, their 30th win of the season. They are currently third in the Metropolitan Division. They were already looking like a playoff team, but with the addition of Vladimir Taranenko, New York could be contenders.

Vladimir Tarasenko's trade details

The New York Rangers acquired winger Vladimir Tarasenko and defenseman Niko Mikkola from the St. Louis Blues. In exchange, they sent St. Louis winger Sammy Blais, defenseman Hunter Skinner, a 2023 first-round pick, and a 2024 fourth-round pick.

The Rangers were looking to upgrade their offense and Tarasenko is exactly that. He can play on the top line with fellow Russian Artemi Panarin and Mike Zibanejad or even play on the same line as Chris Kreider. Their offensive lineup is now one to be reckoned with.

Tarasenko was in the final year of his eight-year, $60 million contract which had a $7.5 million AAV. The Blues will retain 50% of Tarasenko's remaining salary, which will be crucial for New York if they want to add more players without exceeding their salary cap.

Niko Mikkola will be a great depth addition to the Rangers defense. He has three assists in 50 games with the Blues with 96 hits and 68 blocked shots.

With these additions, New York are a formidable team in a very competitive Metropolitan Division.