Several significant moves have taken place in the NHL as teams prepare for the upcoming trade deadline. The Nashville Predators have made headlines by claiming two players off waivers: left winger Jakub Vrana from the Washington Capitals and defenseman Jordan Oesterle from the Boston Bruins. Meanwhile, the Detroit Red Wings have placed Christian Fischer on waivers, only to see him claimed by the Columbus Blue Jackets. Fischer has struggled this season but adds depth to the Blue Jackets' roster.

Among the new players on waivers, veteran enforcer Ryan Reaves of the Toronto Maple Leafs stands out, having averaged limited ice time but still possessing notable penalty minutes. The trade deadline is a critical period for teams to assess their rosters and make necessary adjustments, and with new names entering the waivers, there's potential for further shake-ups.

Jakub Vrana has been claimed off waivers by the Nashville Predators, following a turbulent stint with the Washington Capitals. The Capitals, in search of a third-line center, waived the left-winger who has had limited impact this season, tallying just seven goals and 11 points across 26 games. With this move, the Capitals are expected to fill their roster needs with the recall of Alexander Alexeyev from the AHL. Vrana’s prior success under Predators GM Barry Trotz in Washington could rekindle his performance on a new team.

Despite his potential, Vrana has faced challenges, including missing significant game time this season. His contract, which carries a $775,000 cap hit, allows him to become an unrestricted free agent at the season's end. As Nashville looks to re-establish their playoff position, Vrana’s previous championship experience could be an asset in their quest.

The Washington Capitals are actively working to create salary cap flexibility as they head towards the trade deadline. They have placed Jakub Vrana on waivers, allowing the team to retain him for up to 10 games or 30 days if he clears. Meanwhile, Columbus Blue Jackets GM Don Waddell emphasizes a cautious approach to trading, focusing on players with term remaining on their contracts rather than making deals for rental players. On the other hand, Vegas Golden Knights GM Kelly McCrimmon points out that while they have $2.3 million in projected cap space, they don't plan on making major trades but will keep an eye on potential smaller deals as the deadline approaches.

The Washington Capitals have brought defenseman Alex Alexeyev back from a conditioning loan with the Hershey Bears, following his impressive stint where he notched two assists and a +5 rating in just three games. The team has also made roster adjustments by placing Jakub Vrana on waivers, allowing for new acquisitions as the NHL Trade Deadline approaches. Alexeyev's performance this season, including five games with the Capitals and a total of 39 appearances, showcases his potential as he looks to solidify his role on the roster.

With the deadline looming, the Capitals are reportedly searching for a third-line center to enhance their competitiveness. Alexeyev has already contributed eight points in his NHL career and has shown promise in the AHL, where he recorded 52 points in 145 games. His development at a critical time could play a significant role in Washington's playoff push.