Detroit Red Wings find out the fate of Jakub Vrana as waivers deadline passes

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Josh tupper
January 4, 2023 (2:03 PM)

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Yesterday afternoon the Detroit Red Wings and General Manager, Yzerman made the very surprising decision of placing former first round pick Jakub Vrana on waivers. The decision came as a surprise to many, as Vrana had just left the NHL's players assistance program and was ready to return to NHL action.

Jakub Vrana (DET) has been placed on waivers.

Jakub Vrana recently went through the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program.

His contract carries a $5.25M AAV through next season.

In two games with the Red Wings this season Vrana has a goal and an assist. He was most recently sent to the Grand Rapids Griffins of the AHL for a conditioning stint. In 323 career games, Vrana has 91 goals and 98 assists.

The Red Wings are attempting to positioning themselves to make salary cap room for Robby Fabbri and Tyler Bertuzzi. Unfortunately for the Red Wings, Vrana went unclaimed and while he can be sent to the American Hockey League this move only clears about $1,000,000 for the Red Wings.

This could cause some cap implications for the Red Wings, but Steve Yzerman doesn't do anything by accident and clearly is very methodical in his approach. His next steps should definitely be fun to watch.