Steve Yzerman makes final decision on Jakub Vrana, basically gives him away in a trade

After a stint that began so well, Jakub Vrana's time with the Detroit Red Wings quickly soured. Dealing with repeated injuries, some off-ice issues, and seemingly the ire of Steve Yzerman, Jakub Vrana was mercifully traded today.

The Detroit Red Wings will send Jakub Vrana to the St. Louis Blues in exchange for a seventh round draft pick in 2025 and career AHL forward Dylan McLaughlin.

Vrana will likely immediately get an opportunity to contribute in the top-six of the Blues, and can hopefully regain his form there. Vrana's only played 5 games this season, but in 26 games last season, he scored 13 goals and 19 assists. Vrana's an elite goal scoring threat, and if he can consistently stay healthy and active, this deal could be a massive success for the Blues.

However, there's a reason the price was so low for Vrana. For a cap-strapped Detroit team, his $5.25M annual value for this year and next was too rich. Sending him to the Blues, the Red Wings will also be retaining 50% of Vrana's contract.

The Blues acquire a young forward with elite goal scoring potential as part of their re-tooling year, and the Wings give up on a young player for salary reasons. This trade is a clear win for the Blues.

MUST READ

8 hours ago  |  By Tom Banks Matthew Tkachuk Drawing Heated Criticism For Decision To Play In Four Nations Finale

9 hours ago  |  By Tom Banks Paul Maurice Breaks Silence on Matthew Tkachuk's Injury Status Ahead of Panthers Game Tomorrow Night

12 hours ago  |  By Daniel Lucente Video Captures Jon Cooper Sending a Message to McDavid and Marner Ahead of OT Game-Winning Goal

14 hours ago  |  By Tom Banks Connor McDavid Makes his Feelings Clear on the Passing of the Torch from Sidney Crosby

15 hours ago  |  By Tom Banks Brandon Hagel Puts the Final Nail in the Coffin After Latest Shot at the Tkachuk Brothers and Team USA

17 hours ago  |  By Tom Banks Brady Tkachuk and Insider Both Give Devastating Update On Matthew Tkachuk's Injury Situation

18 hours ago  |  By Daniel Lucente Brad Marchand Puts the Tkachuk Brothers on Blast Following Championship Win

Feb 20  |  By Graham Montgomery Team Canada Star Defenseman Ruled Out Moments Before Final Showdown with Team USA

MORE STORIES