Conflicting reports on Jakub Vrana, and a move is now imminent

Since being drafted 13th overall by the Washington Capitals in the 2014, Jakub Vrana has been lauded for his offensive potential. After a couple successful seasons with Washington, Vrana was traded to the Detroit Red Wings for Anthony Mantha, where his career began to take a turn. Now with the St. Louis Blues, the much maligned forward is now reportedly available for trade.

Earlier today, reports surfaced that Vrana would be placed on waivers by the Blues.


Then moments ago, NHL insider Elliotte Friedman reported that the Blues would not be waiving Vrana, but instead are exploring trade options for the forward. With these conflicting reports surfacing, it seems a move could be imminent.



For now, the problem with Vrana is his availability to play, and his bloated contract. Since joining Detroit, Vrana has struggled with repeated severe injuries, and has spent some time in the NHL Players Assistance Program for substance abuse.

In limited playing opportunities, Vrana has both succeeded and disappointed. In 20 games with the Blues last year, Vrana scored 10 goals and 14 points. However this year, in 19 games, he's scored only 2 goals and 6 points. He's currently under contract for $5.25M, of which the Red Wings are retaining half, but his contract is still too rich for such an unpredictable player.

With these conflicting reports surfacing this morning, it seems like a move could be made soon to get a change of scenery for this talented, yet inconsistent player.