The Washington Capitals are welcoming back a familiar face this fall, though his stay depends on his performance.
Jakub Vrana, a key player from the Capitals’ 2018 Stanley Cup-winning team, has signed a professional tryout agreement with the team. This arrangement allows Vrana to showcase his skills during training camp, with the potential to secure a contract for the 2024-25 season and earn a spot on the Opening Night roster if he impresses.
Vrana’s tryout comes amid a period of stagnation in his NHL career. He was not re-signed after his three-year, $15.75 million contract ($5.25M cap hit) expired over the offseason. Last season, he recorded 36 points (16 goals, 20 assists) in 42 games with the AHL’s Springfield Thunderbirds, in addition to 6 points (2 goals, 4 assists) in 21 games with the St. Louis Blues.
The Capitals’ senior writer, Mike Vogel, describes Vrana’s return as a “no risk/high reward proposition” for the team, noting that “most players are cut loose at the end of camp.”
Vrana’s previous stint with Washington ended in April 2021 after conflicts with then-coach Peter Laviolette led to his trade to the Detroit Red Wings. Capitals GM Brian MacLellan described the situation as a “tug of war” between coaching staff and noted that Vrana was a frustrated player.
Vrana later reflected on the trade, expressing surprise and disappointment at not receiving more opportunities with the Capitals.
During his time with Detroit, Vrana scored 22 goals in 42 games across parts of three seasons, but his tenure was affected by a serious shoulder injury and a period in the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program.
After receiving help and a stint in the minors, Vrana was traded to the Blues. He had a strong finish to the 2022-23 season with 10 goals in 20 games but struggled last season, ending up on waivers and demoted to the AHL.
Vrana’s return to Washington coincides with a significant shift in the Capitals’ organization. Peter Laviolette and the team parted ways in the 2023 offseason, and Mantha was traded to the Vegas Golden Knights at the 2024 trade deadline. Chris Patrick succeeded MacLellan as GM in July.
Capitals head coach Spencer Carbery, who was with the organization during much of Vrana’s previous tenure, is known for his ability to maximize player performance.
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