Detroit Red Wings forward Jakub Vrana will miss four months with a shoulder injury. Max Bultman of The Athletic reported the news Thursday morning:
Jakub Vrana will have shoulder surgery and miss a minimum of four months. Huge blow for the Red Wings
— Max Bultman (@m_bultman) September 30, 2021
Jakub Vrana Injured
The news on Vrana’s injury comes at a huge blow to the Red Wings. Last season, Vrana was acquired along with a first and second-round pick and Richard Panik in a trade for Anthony Mantha. He exceeded expectations, putting up 13 points in just as many games. Losing Vrana for half the season will dramatically affect Detroit’s offense, a team that already struggled to put the puck in the net. Vrana ended last season with 36 points in 50 games. He is considered one of the most prolific 5v5 scorers in the NHL. Vrana has scored 84 goals and 84 assists in his career for 168 points in 295 games. He was originally drafted in the first round of the 2014 NHL Draft, 13th overall by the Washington Capitals.
What This Means for the Team
If there’s a silver lining to this injury, it’s the opening on the roster. Bobby Ryan played his heart out last night, scoring a goal, an assist, and a shootout win. This opening may secure a roster spot for Ryan, who is currently on a paid tryout with the Red Wings. If Ryan doesn’t assume the mantle, prospect Lucas Raymond might make the full-time leap into the NHL. He made a great case for himself during Prospect Camp, scoring three points in two games. Vrana’s extended absence could even invite a rotating carousel of prospects as the Red Wings seek a proper fit. There’s a lot to work with; Jonatan Berggren, Joe Veleno, and Raymond all appear ready to make an impact at a new level.
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