Jakub Vrana Returns from NHL/NHLPA player assistance program

On Friday morning, the Detroit Red Wings and the NHL/NHLPA announced that forward Jakub Vrana had been returned to available status. Vrana joined his teammates in practice Friday morning wearing a blue, non-contact jersey. 

From the NHL/NHLPA press release; “The National Hockey League and National Hockey League Players’ Association announced today that Detroit Red Wings forward Jakub Vrana has been returned to available status and has entered the follow-up care phase of the NHL/NHLPA player assistance program.”

Vrana only appeared in two games this season before being admitted to the league’s program, scoring one goal and adding an assist.

With long-term injuries to players such as Tyler Bertuzzi, the Red Wings’ newly acquired depth has been tested of late, dropping the last four out of five games. With a desperate need for offense, the return of Jakub Vrana is highly anticipated in Detroit, as through 39 games played with the Red Wings, Vrana has 22 goals and ten assists.

Dylan Larkin also joined Vrana in a non-contact jersey on Friday after blocking a shot Tuesday night against Carolina. While neither player’s return has been confirmed, it is a step in the right direction away from what has been a rough week in Detroit.