from Samantha Pell of The Washington Post,
Mantha, 26, is a 6-foot-5, 234-pounder known for his scoring ability. He is able to play on both the left and right side and can fit in up and down the lineup. MacLellan said he will fit best with a playmaking center: Evgeny Kuznetsov or Nicklas Backstrom.
The Capitals had a conversation about Mantha with Detroit a few weeks ago, and the deal finally came to fruition Monday....
“He’s a long player. He uses a long stick. He has a good shot,” MacLellan said. “The size factor more translates to skill than a physical running over people, and I think he had that in him. He’s a big, strong guy that can play a big game and uses his size and strength and length to his advantage. I think it’s an effective style on the ice.”
To add Mantha, the Capitals lost a younger, electric winger in Vrana....
Capitals Coach Peter Laviolette expressed frustration with Vrana in recent weeks, suggesting his game needed a bit of a “reset.” In four games after sitting out two, he had one goal and one assist.
MacLellan said he felt Vrana and Panik were unhappy with their roles — Vrana in particular.
“Jakub’s a little frustrated with where he’s at here within the organization, probably wants a little more ice time, wants more responsibility, and there was a tug-of-war between coaching staff and staffs that have had him and the way he was playing,” MacLellan said.
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