REPORT: Steve Yzerman has apparently decided a former 1st round pick won't play for the Red Wings again

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Ryan
February 7, 2023 (12:21)

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The Detroit Red Wings went big in free agency this past offseason to try and become a playoff team this year. They are still in the race for a Wild Card position this season and with this, Steve Yzerman has had to make some difficult decisions with his roster.

He shocked the hockey world a few weeks ago when he placed Stanley Cup Champion, Jakub Vrana on waivers, at risk of losing this goal scoring forward for nothing.

Vrana had a stint recently in the NHL's Player Assistance program, and after he returned the Red Wings sent him to the AHL. He started very slow in his return back, but he has been on a goal scoring tear recently, but despite this, apparently the young forward will not be returning to the Wings.

David Pagnotta of The Fourth Period reported that the Wings have no plans to bring back the winger. The Wings are apparently ready to move on from Vrana in either a trade or a buyout.

Nick Alberga: For those waiting on a Jakub Vrana recall, don't hold your breath. #LGRW

While anything's possible, I'm hearing it's highly likely he's played his final game with Detroit.

Likeliest scenarios: TRADE or OFFSEASON BUYOUT.

David Pagnotta: Nick's info here on Vrana echoes what I've been told about the situation. Very unlikely Vrana rejoins the big club this year and the Wings are intent on moving him, one way or another, this off-season.

Vrana has 1-year left on his contract after this season at a $5.25M cap hit.

Nick's info here on Vrana echoes what I've been told about the situation. Very unlikely Vrana rejoins the big club this year and the Wings are intent on moving him, one way or another, this off-season.

Vrana has 1-year left on his contract after this season at a $5.25M cap hit. https://t.co/TxBxD0Qspj� David Pagnotta (@TheFourthPeriod) February 7, 2023

The 26 year old has another season after this year with a cap hit of $5,250,000. There is definitely something still going on behind the scenes here that the public does not know about because Vrana is an elite 5on5 goal scorer and the Wings willing to give him up for nothing doesn't quite make sense.