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Washington Capitals: 2019 predictions for Jakub Vrana

By Michael Marzzacco

RALEIGH, NC - MARCH 28: Jakub Vrana #13 of the Washington Capitals scores a game tying goal and celebrates with teammate Carl Hagelin #62 during an NHL game on March 28, 2019 at PNC Arena in Raleigh, North Carolina. (Photo by Gregg Forwerck/NHLI via Getty Images)
RALEIGH, NC - MARCH 28: Jakub Vrana #13 of the Washington Capitals scores a game tying goal and celebrates with teammate Carl Hagelin #62 during an NHL game on March 28, 2019 at PNC Arena in Raleigh, North Carolina. (Photo by Gregg Forwerck/NHLI via Getty Images) /
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Washington Capitals left winger Jakub Vrana has all the tools to become a superstar.

Washington Capitals General Manager Brian MacLellan knew the potential when the team selected Jakub Vrana at 13th overall in the 2014 NHL Draft, GMBM’s first draft class. MacLellan also knew the importance of re-signing him.

The Capitals experienced a bit of a turnover saying goodbye to the likes of Matt Niskanen, Andre Burakovsky, Brett Connolly, and Devante Smith-Pelly. Vrana entered the beginning of the summer as a restricted free agent (RFA) and the 23-year old and his agent worked out a deal that will be a bridge before his next contract.

The extension was two-years worth $6.7 million, an average annual value AAV of $3.35 million. It’s a contract that he rightfully deserves. With the aging core of the Capitals not getting any younger, the team will look to guys like Vrana to step it up more.

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So how can Jakub Vrana possibly step up his game after the career-year he had? Vrana finished with 24 goals and 23 assists for 47 points, easily career-highs across the board. He’s a speedy winger who can get to the net and give opposing teams headaches.

Vrana progressed very well from the previous year. As his play was inconsistent in 2017-18, Vrana was scratched from the lineup numerous times by former head coach Barry Trotz. Trotz has a tendency to scratch young players for a few games, sending them up to the press box instead of giving them minutes.

In my opinion, Vrana’s turnaround came from a couple big playoff goals. He had two huge ones in the second round against the Pittsburgh Penguins that helped the Caps eliminate their nemesis once and for all. He also scored the opening goal in the Stanley Cup clincher.

Ever since Vrana stepped onto the ice for the first time in December 2016, the baby faced kid became an instant hit among the fans. Male Caps fans love his grit, hustle and hard work. Ladies love Vrana for his looks, charm and excellent hockey skills.

Vrana will likely play on the second line this season next to Evgeny Kuznetsov (Lars Eller for the first three games with Kuznetsov’s suspension) as well as T.J. Oshie, who has been practicing with his teammates throughout camp. Maybe Reirden will experiment with Vrana on the top line for a game or two.

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A 30-goal season from Vrana is very doable. His work ethic, which includes staying on the ice after practice to get up extra shots, is beyond his years. He’ll be one of the most exciting players to watch this season and the best part is he’s here in Washington for at least two more years.

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