The Czech winger is attending Capitals camp on a PTO.
The Czech winger is attending Capitals camp on a PTO.
WASHINGTON — Jakub Vrana is feeling the love.
It's everywhere he looks in his return to the District, as he tries to claw his way back to the Washington Capitals. From the "Welcome Back, Jake" signs that line the boards during warmups to getting his first goal back at Capital One Arena in over three years, Vrana is grateful to be back in Capitals colors.
"That was really nice. I definitely feel that (support)," Vrana said postgame. "I'm really happy that they supported me and it felt good."
Vrana, who is attending camp on a professional tryout, is laying it all on the line down the stretch as he looks to earn a contract back with the team that made him a first-round pick back in 2014, and another strong showing on Friday has put him in a good spot.
The Czech winger scored his first goal of the preseason and was around the puck all night, getting some good looks as he skated on the second line. He showcased his speed and shot on numerous occasions, and he even stepped outside his comfort zone, getting called upon by the coaching staff to go over the boards for the penalty kill.
"Noticeable tonight, and he showed some of the things that I think would make him special," head coach Spencer Carbery said. From a speed standpoint, and then his offensive mind to know when he can make some reads to get out of the zone... I chalk that up to just very, very high-end offensive IQ and knowing where the puck's going next and when he can start to move his feet and find space."
Entering the final weeks of training camp, Vrana said he's feeling more confident with each day that goes by.
"For sure (I have confidence). Like sometimes the game doesn’t go your way, but I think as long as there is chances, you kind of set yourself up for next game," Vrana said.
At the end of the day, even though the circumstances are different than they were the last time he was here, Vrana said it still feels like old times.
“Yeah, not much has really changed, you know? It’s nice to be back here," Vrana said. "They still great, and it’s awesome.”
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