The Capitals are keeping Vrana on board as they kick off the regular season.

WASHINGTON — Monday was a little bit sweeter for Jakub Vrana, as he learned that he'd survived the final round of cuts and would be returning to the Washington Capitals, the team he started his career with and always felt was home to him.

The Czech winger is expected to sign a contract in the coming days — his agent has been in talks with the team – and be on the roster when the season begins on Saturday.

And for head coach Spencer Carbery, the contract is more than just nostalgia; it's well-deserved.

"He's had a great attitude. He's worked extremely hard, had a good training camp, saw some of the things that he could potentially do individually, but also some areas that he can help us as a team," Carbery said. "Proud of him and the way he competed. Like I said, his attitude was phenomenal through training camp."

Vrana, who won the Stanley Cup with Washington back in 2018 and had been traded to the Detroit Red Wings back in 2021, had a strong showing through the preseason with a team-high 11 shots and a goal and assist through three games. He also stood out in practice with his speed and shot, and D.C. will be looking to him to regain the form that made him a first-round pick in 2014.

"Trying to get (him) back to the player that he was in the National Hockey League," Carbery said.

For Vrana, getting a second chance with the Capitals means a lot to him as he looks to resurrect his career.

"It's great not just getting a chance to play in the league but also on the team that I know," Vrana told The Hockey News. "I've been here, had a great time here when I played here and I know a lot of people here. Obviously, just to be back with this organization and these guys, it's great."

His current and former teammates also feel the same way.

"He's such a great kid. (This is) something we were all rooting for throughout camp. He's been a lot of fun to have around the rink, he's a guy that kind of makes it a joy coming to the rink every day to see a smile on his face," Tom Wilson said. "He's a heck of a player, we've seen what he can do and I think he'll complement the group very well.

"He's put in the work. He's grown as a player, as a person. I'm proud of him for where he's at now, and hopefully, he can help our team."