After Requesting a Trade Last Year This Bruin Wants To Stick Around
Boston Bruins winger Jake DeBrusk seems eager to continue his journey with the team as his ongoing contract approaches its end next year. According to NHL.com Staff Writer Derek Van Diest, the 26-year-old made his desire to stay with the team clear during the Perry Pearn 3 vs. 3 Hockey Camp.
Expressing his strong connection with the team, DeBrusk mentioned, «This is the team I've known and grown up with. Hopefully, things move in that direction, and we'll see how it unfolds.» While uncertain about his upcoming path, especially considering potential significant changes in the Bruins' lineup, DeBrusk elaborated, «That's why I have my agent (Rick Valette). I told him I wanted to stay out of this one. Eventually, it'll be a relief when everything's settled.»
Not long ago, DeBrusk was seeking a trade away from Boston. Back in November 2021, the former first-round pick found himself benched by the then-coach Bruce Cassidy, and the relationship between him and the organization appeared strained. He even agreed to a two-year extension, hoping it would increase his appeal to other teams in a potential trade. However, he ended up staying, and when things improved, he reversed his decision in 2022.
As he became more comfortable in his role on the team and his contributions on the ice, his performance started to shine. Last season marked DeBrusk's best performance to date. He achieved 27 goals and 23 assists in 64 games, along with an impressive +26 rating.
The Bruins' Requirement for DeBrusk Makes His Intentions to Stay Promising
Barring any unforeseen setbacks and regression to his lower production levels from 2020-21, there should be a solid place for DeBrusk as a forward in the Bruins' lineup. With notable players like Patrice Bergeron, David Krejci, Taylor Hall, Tyler Bertuzzi, and Dmitry Orlov leaving the team, the Bruins are determined to remain competitive. Securing extensions for soon-to-be free agents, starting with DeBrusk, is a vital part of their strategy.
DeBrusk has faith in his skills.
«As long as I stay healthy, I believe I can achieve 30 goals this season. I've come close twice with 27 (also in 2018-19), and I've hit 25 as well (in 2021-22). If I stay healthy, that's definitely the goal—to finally reach that 30-goal mark.»
The details of a potential extension and its timing are unclear. However, if he has an outstanding season, there's speculation that he might be looking at a deal similar to Brandon Hagel's recent contract with the Tampa Bay Lightning—eight years at $52 million.
