Potential Destinations for Jakub Voracek

Another name has been added to a growing pool of veteran players that are likely to be moved this offseason. The most recent addition is Philadelphia Flyers winger Jakub Voracek. With Philadelphia looking to clear cap, they’ve discussed moving on from Voracek. He has three years left on his contract at an average of $8 million a year. He’s been a relatively consistent player for Philadelphia, scoring at least 20 goals in seven of his ten seasons with the team. But he’s currently 31 and coming off his lowest point total since his rookie season. Despite that, there are still some teams who can risk his cap hit and hope he returns to form for the 2021-22 season. 

Seattle Kraken

Philadelphia will reportedly be leaving Voracek exposed in the expansion draft, making Seattle a strong contender. Unlike other teams in the mix, Seattle doesn’t have any pre-existing cap restrictions to take on his $8 million hit. They’re also going to be looking for big name players to build a fanbase and possibly a contender. Voracek checks both of those boxes and would have the potential to be one of Seattle’s best players. He would be a virtual lock for their first line and can be depended on to be a strong source of offense for them. In addition, he’d be a good veteran leader for a team that’s bound to be somewhat young. All in all Seattle would be taking a big step towards first year playoff contention by adding Voracek to their team. 

Calgary Flames

Courtesy of NHL

If Voracek isn’t selected in the expansion draft, the Flames present another interesting option for Philadelphia. The main piece here wouldn’t even be Voracek, but in fact Flames winger Johnny Gaudreau. Gaudreau has always been connected to Philadelphia being that he grew up a Flyers fan and has expressed interest in playing there. If Calgary can’t extend Gaudreau and looks to trade him, Voracek can help Philadelphia land him. Acquiring Voracek would help Calgary stay in a position to contend even with Gaudreau gone. In this hypothetical, Philadelphia would also have to trade prospects and possibly retain part of Voracek’s contract to make it work. But that would be a price they’d be happy to pay if they’re able to land the young winger in exchange. 

Detroit Red Wings

Courtesy of NHL

The Red Wings don’t have a lot of talent on their team, but they do have a lot of cap space. This potential deal could be a win-win for Philadelphia and Detroit. Detroit could take on Voracek’s entire contract, which would be a huge benefit for Philadelphia. Detroit would be getting a top six forward for minimal cost being that Philadelphia just wants to unload his contract. Adding a player like Voracek could accelerate GM Steve Yzerman’s work to turn Detroit into a contender. Voracek would establish a strong first line to build around working with Tyler Bertuzzi and Dylan Larkin. Overall, Voracek would vastly improve the offensive attack of the Red Wings and help give them much needed depth. 

Anaheim Ducks

The Ducks need all the help they can get to improve their roster. The overall team finished second to last in the entire league, only two wins better than the Sabres. On top of that they were last in average goals per game with a mere 2.2. With the Ducks rumored to be involved with both Jack Eichel and Vladimir Tarasenko, it’s clear they’re looking for upgrades. While Voracek isn’t on the level of those two players, he’s a viable backup option if those trades don’t pan out.

One thing Voracek has done even in the last two down seasons is create offense. He’s had consistently high assist numbers throughout his career, displaying his ability to create for others if not for himself. Even if his best goal scoring days are behind him, the Ducks would benefit greatly from having his skills as a creator. Voracek’s presence on the team would definitely improve those terrible offensive numbers from the 2020-21 season.

Featured image courtesy of Getty Images

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