The Detroit Red Wings, riding a three-game winning streak, won’t immediately insert Jakub Vrana in the lineup after recalling him from the Grand Rapids Griffins on Tuesday.
Coach Derek Lalonde isn’t going to breakup a winning lineup, which is common practice for NHL coaches. The Red Wings play the Edmonton Oilers tonight at 9:30 p.m. (Bally)
Vrana was called up to replace Lucas Raymond who was placed on the injured reserve, retroactive to Feb. 10.
Defenseman Jake Walman is out day-to-day with an upper body injury. The Red Wings haven’t said what the injury is, but Lalonde was hopeful he might play either tonight against Edmonton or tomorrow against Calgary.
Vrana had started to score of late in Grand Rapids. The hope is he can bolster the team’s offense. Presuming Vrana does play some games, the Red Wings may be also hoping he plays well enough to attract some trade possibilities. The biggest detriment to that occurrence is his $5.25 million salary.
The Czech native did clear waivers earlier this season to pave the way to be sent to the American Hockey League. He hasn’t played an NHL game since Oct. 15. After playing that night against the New Jersey Devils, Vrana entered the NHL/NHL Players Association Player Assistance Program.
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