“He more understands hockey in the U.S.,” Blues forward Vladimir Sobotka said. “He had to figure it out that this is not like (Russia’s) KHL style. You don’t have the time on the ice. You have to make faster and quicker decisions with the puck. It’s just a different style of hockey.”

A year ago, Tarasenko would turn over possession of the puck, attempting to make one too many moves or because he was surprised by the quick closure of the opposing defender. His awareness this season is much more evident.

“That’s not so easy, play good my first season,” Tarasenko said. “Right now I feel much better. Guys helped me and right now I know what (Hitchcock) wants from me. I know our system, I know our drills. It’s much easier when you don’t think about it. You’re not thinking about game stuff. You already know it.

“(The) hardest for me was the change from big rinks to small rinks. The game is different and more contact. There’s more space in European rinks, more time to make some decisions. I like this rink more. Sometimes it’s hard to beat somebody because you don’t have space, but it’s a big challenge for everybody.”

Tarasenko is meeting the challenge with fast feet, patience with the puck, a strong shot and a willingness to work.