Jakub Vrana Responds After Blues Make Him a Healthy Scratch for Two Games

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TJ Tucker
October 30, 2023 (10:43)

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It's never fun being made a healthy scratch, especially when you know that you have the skills needed to make a difference. However, sometimes a message needs to be sent, and it looks like this one has been received.

Jakub Vrana of the St. Louis Blues spoke to reporters Sunday for the first time after sitting as a healthy scratch for the past two games. He was blunt about his situation.

"I can't say I'm happy about it, but it is what it is at this time right now. The reaction is what matters right now. I'm going to keep working on me and I'm going to keep working on my game. Hopefully I get the chance to be back and show what I can do."

Vrana has the skill, speed and shot required to make an impact on the NHL, but it's his defensive play that has plagued him since he was drafted 13th overall by the Washington Capitals in 2014. Vrana said he understands he needs to be better.

"I definitely think there's always (room for) improvement. I think there's always things like managing the puck a little better, being strong on the puck, holding on to it more, and playing with it in the good areas. I think that could be improved, for sure.

I got my message. They said, �You've got to be better.' I accept it as it is. I respect what the coach wants from me. We've got a whole season to play, and I want to be part of this team. I'm happy here, and I'm going to prove it."

It looks like Vrana will be back in the lineup when the Blues travel to Colorado on Wednesday. Now he needs to put his words into action to ensure he stays.